Noah Lyles began his 2025 track season with a victory in the 60m dash at the RADD Invitational in Gainesville, Florida. Despite securing the win, his performance left room for improvement, especially when compared to the time posted by his Jamaican rival, Kishane Thompson, on the same day.
Lyles, the reigning Olympic 100m champion, clocked 6.62 seconds in his first race since earning a bronze medal in the 200m at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The race marked his return to competitive action and was a significant step in his preparations for the upcoming season. Lyles edged out his training partner, Udodi Onwuzurike, who finished second with a time of 6.70 seconds. Caleb Dean and Jaylen Slade followed with times of 6.75 and 6.87 seconds, respectively.
While Lyles secured the win, his time fell short of his personal best of 6.43 seconds, which he achieved in Albuquerque in February 2024. Additionally, his performance was overshadowed by Thompson, who clocked 6.56 seconds in a separate 60m race in Astana, Kazakhstan. The Jamaican sprinter’s result further fueled the growing rivalry between the two athletes. Both performances suggest that neither sprinter has yet reached peak form, but their early-season results have already sparked anticipation for future showdowns.
The comparison between Lyles and Thompson is particularly intriguing given their contrasting trajectories in recent years. Lyles has been a dominant force in track and field, boasting six world championship titles and an Olympic gold medal. His achievements include a silver medal at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland, where he clocked 6.44 seconds to finish behind Christian Coleman. Lyles has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stages, making him a formidable competitor in any race.
Thompson, on the other hand, has been steadily rising through the ranks. His performance in Astana highlights his potential to challenge established stars like Lyles. The Jamaican sprinter’s time of 6.56 seconds in the 60m dash indicates that he is poised to be a strong contender in the upcoming season. As both athletes prepare for the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, their rivalry promises to be a focal point of the competition.
Lyles’ return to the track also comes with personal milestones, as he continues to balance his athletic career with his personal life. His fiancée, Junelle Bromfield, has been a source of support and inspiration, adding depth to his journey as an elite athlete. The couple’s relationship has been a topic of interest, with Bromfield sharing insights into her own challenges and growth.
As the season progresses, Lyles will undoubtedly aim to refine his form and build on his early results. His performance in Gainesville serves as a starting point, providing him with valuable feedback as he works toward his goals. With the World Indoor Championships just weeks away, Lyles will be looking to reclaim his position at the top of the sport.
The rivalry between Lyles and Thompson adds an exciting dynamic to the sprinting landscape. Both athletes have shown glimpses of their potential, setting the stage for thrilling competitions in the months ahead. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these two sprinters continue to push each other to new heights. Whether on the indoor track or the outdoor circuit, their battles are sure to captivate audiences and define the narrative of the 2025 season.
