Noah Lyles has described how his parents, siblings, and mother all had a crucial part in enabling him to “change” track and field forever.
Olympic 100-meter winner Noah Lyles has never shied away from discussing the important role his family has had in his life, both personally and in his athletic career.
Lyles, who is well-known for being open about his feelings and mental health, never stops stressing the value of his family, which consists of his father Kevin, sister Abby, brother Josephus, mother Keisha Caine, and girlfriend Junelle Bromfield from Jamaica.
The sprinter overcame several obstacles in his life, both mental and physical, before winning an Olympic medal.
His family had financial difficulties when he was growing up, and Lyles has openly discussed his struggles with depression. But despite everything, he and his family have stuck together and helped one another during these trying times. Lyles now makes use of his platform to tell his story and inspire others to overcome hardship.
Speaking on the U.S. Track and Field YouTube channel, Lyles conveyed his sincere appreciation for his family’s support as he has navigated the highs and lows of his journey.
“It is a very comforting feeling and a very hard task to deal with as well,” Lyles said. We all have different life stages and are in different sections of the same body, including my sister, mom, brother, and me.
“It’s hard to figure out whether I’m supposed to be happy for myself or compassionate and open to my brother, who’s chasing the same goal.”
He further explained the delicate balance of emotions within the family, noting that communication is key. “With that comes a lot of communication, but we all know, no matter what, we have joy for each other, and that helps us get through any moment.”
One of the toughest periods in Lyles’ life was in 2019, just before his first Olympics and during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The sprinter experienced extreme pressure, depression, and homesickness, particularly after his brother Josephus failed to make it to the competition. His mother Keisha traveled to Amsterdam to visit him during a particularly trying time while he was getting ready for the 2019 World Championships in Doha. She brought his favorite cereal, Raisin Bran Crunch, with her to cheer him up.
Ahead of the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, Lyles discussed the pivotal moment in his road toward mental health in an emotional interview with TIME. “I had to choose what to do. I thought, Okay, I need to get better. I have to stop letting this rule me,” he said.
Lyles frequently cites his mother as the inspiration behind his work. In a heartbreaking interview, he shared with NBC in July 2024 how much her sacrifices meant to him and his sibling. “My mother works really hard.” She would frequently declare, “I don’t care what the job is; as long as I can make money for my family, I’ll do the job,” as I recall. And I’ll give it everything I’ve got. I approach life that way,” he remarked, clearly moved.
