Noah Lyles: Kenny Bednarek Beef | 200 | Age | Married

Noah Lyles has become one of the most dynamic and outspoken figures in track and field. As a multiple-time World Champion in the 200 meters, Lyles is no stranger to the spotlight. But his ongoing rivalry—often referred to as a “beef”—with fellow American sprinter Kenny Bednarek has added extra intrigue to the sprinting world.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down Noah Lyles’ rivalry with Kenny Bednarek, his 200-meter dominance, age, and rumors about his marital status. Let’s dive deep into the life and career of one of track and field’s most compelling athletes.

Who Is Noah Lyles?

Noah Lyles is a world-class American sprinter who specializes in the 100m and 200m events. Known for his explosive finishes, charismatic interviews, and advocacy for mental health, he has become a fan favorite both on and off the track.

• Full Name: Noah Lyles

• Date of Birth: July 18, 1997

• Age (as of 2025): 28 years

• Nationality: American

• Height: 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)

• Event Specialty: 200 meters (and 100 meters)

• World Titles: 5-time World Champion (3x in 200m, 1x in 100m, 1x 4x100m relay)

The Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles Beef: What Really Happened?

Origins of the Rivalry

The so-called “beef” between Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek, another top-tier American sprinter, isn’t your typical heated feud, but it has featured plenty of competitive tension. Both athletes specialize in the 200 meters, and each has taken turns being the top U.S. finisher in international meets.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics (Held in 2021)

One of the key flashpoints in their rivalry came during the Tokyo Olympics. In the men’s 200m final, Bednarek won silver, finishing in 19.68 seconds, while Lyles took bronze with 19.74 seconds. Many track fans noted Lyles’ visible frustration after the race.

Though Lyles congratulated Bednarek, he also admitted to underperforming and said he wasn’t happy with his own execution.

“I didn’t come here for third. I know what I’m capable of,” Lyles said post-race.

2022 and 2023 World Championships

In 2022 and 2023, the rivalry intensified as Lyles reclaimed dominance, winning gold in the 200m, while Bednarek trailed behind in both years. This pendulum swing set the stage for growing tension, as both runners continued to vie for the crown of “America’s top 200m sprinter.”

Social Media & Subtle Jabs

The “beef” has sometimes played out on social media, where both athletes have thrown subtle jabs—though never explicitly naming each other. Lyles has spoken about being “the face of American sprinting”, while Bednarek has hinted at not being shown enough respect.

The rivalry has sparked debates online, especially on Reddit and Twitter/X, where fans compare the two sprinters’ stats, style, and legacy.

Is It Personal?

While competitive, the “feud” seems rooted more in mutual ambition than personal dislike. Track legends like Michael Johnson and Ato Boldon have weighed in, suggesting the rivalry is good for the sport.

Noah Lyles: 200m Specialist and Record Chaser

Why the 200m?

Noah Lyles is perhaps best known for the 200-meter dash, an event that combines the speed of the 100m with the endurance of a longer sprint. His explosive acceleration off the bend has made him almost unbeatable in this event when he’s at peak fitness.

Personal Best

• 200m Personal Best: 19.31 seconds (2022)
  This is the third-fastest time in history behind Usain Bolt (19.19) and Yohan Blake (19.26).

Major Achievements in the 200m

• 2019 World Championships (Doha): Gold

• 2022 World Championships (Eugene): Gold

• 2023 World Championships (Budapest): Gold

• Tokyo Olympics 2020: Bronze

Lyles has consistently lowered his times and even flirted with breaking Bolt’s world record. Though he hasn’t done it yet, many believe he’s still a real contender for that historic mark.

Age and Career Longevity

At 28 years old, Noah Lyles is in his athletic prime. Many sprinters hit their peak between 26 and 30, making the 2025 season a pivotal year in Lyles’ quest to solidify his legacy.

With Paris 2024 behind him and World Championships continuing in 2025 and 2027, Lyles will likely target:

• More 200m gold medals

• Expanding his dominance into the 100m

• Breaking the 19.19-second world record

His longevity is supported by a well-managed training regime, a positive mindset, and a strong support system.

Is Noah Lyles Married?

Relationship Status

As of 2025, Noah Lyles is not married. He has been relatively private about his romantic life, although fans often speculate about his dating history on forums like Reddit and Instagram.

Past Relationships

Lyles has been linked with model and track enthusiast Trishell Mayo, but the pair never confirmed a relationship publicly. He has often stated that his main focus is on his career, training, and mental well-being.

In an interview with GQ Sports, Lyles once said:

“Love can wait. Gold medals can’t.”

Future Plans?

Lyles has hinted at wanting a family one day, but for now, he remains single and focused. That hasn’t stopped fans from flooding his social media with questions like:

• “Is Noah Lyles married?”

• “Who is Noah Lyles dating?”

• “Why doesn’t he talk about his girlfriend?”

So far, he’s remained tight-lipped—perhaps wisely choosing to keep his personal life private.

Lyles vs Bednarek: Who Has the Edge?

Head-to-Head Record

While Kenny Bednarek has proven himself on the world stage, especially in the Olympics, Noah Lyles leads the head-to-head record, especially at World Championships.

Statistically and in terms of accolades, Lyles holds the upper hand, though Bednarek remains a serious rival.

Social Media Presence

Noah Lyles has a robust following on Instagram, X/Twitter, and YouTube, where he posts:

• Training vlogs

• Mental health tips

• Behind-the-scenes from meets

• Music (yes, he also raps under the name “Nojo18”)

Bednarek is more reserved online, leading some to see Lyles as the more marketable figure—but both have loyal fan bases.

Reddit Reacts: Fans Weigh in on the Rivalry

The Lyles-Bednarek rivalry has generated massive interest on Reddit, especially in subs like r/trackandfield, where users debate everything from race strategy to celebration styles.

Some popular Reddit threads include:

• “Lyles vs Bednarek: Who’s the real king of the 200?”

• “Bednarek deserves more respect”

• “Can Lyles beat Bolt’s record?”

User reactions are mixed, but most agree: The rivalry makes track and field more exciting.

What’s Next for Noah Lyles?

2025 Goals

• Defend World Titles

• Break 19.19 seconds in the 200m

• Medal in both 100m and 200m consistently

• Lead Team USA to another relay gold

Long-Term Vision

Lyles has spoken about wanting to go down as one of the greatest sprinters of all time, not just in the U.S., but globally.

He also has a passion for mental health advocacy, often reminding fans that even world champions battle anxiety, self-doubt, and pressure.

Final Thoughts

The Noah Lyles vs Kenny Bednarek beef may not be as venomous as some sports rivalries, but it’s built on competitive respect, media tension, and fan debate. It’s also one of the best things to happen to American sprinting in years.

With Lyles continuing to dominate the 200m, while also challenging himself in the 100m, the next few years will be critical. As for his personal life—he’s single, focused, and still chasing greatness.

Whether you’re team Lyles or team Bednarek, one thing is certain: the race is far from over.

FAQs

Q: How old is Noah Lyles in 2025?
A: He is 28 years old.

Q: What is the beef between Noah Lyles and Kenny Bednarek?
A: It’s a competitive rivalry stemming from their close finishes in major 200m races, including the Olympics and World Championships.

Q: Is Noah Lyles married?
A: No, he is not married as of 2025.

Q: What’s Noah Lyles’ best event?
A: The 200 meters, where he is a multiple-time World Champion.