World champion Noah Lyles set a new U.S. Olympic trials record by winning the 200m in 19.53 seconds in Oregon.
The 26-year-old, who had previously won the 100m trials last weekend, overcame rival Kenny Bednarek by 0.06 seconds to claim victory.
Lyles’ time, the fastest 200m recorded in 2024, broke the previous U.S. Olympic trials record set by Michael Johnson before the 1996 Atlanta Games.
Lyles, who won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Games in 2021, credited his success to improved mental health as he pursues a sprint double in Paris.
“I’ve said it all season, but it helps to not have depression,” Lyles stated. “I thank God every day for getting me through each and every round. Healthy, mentally and physically.”
In the women’s 200m, Gabby Thomas emerged victorious with a time of 21.81 seconds, the second-fastest of the year.
Thomas, 27, who also secured a bronze in Tokyo, is aiming for wins in both the 100m and 200m in Paris.
“I’m just ecstatic,” she said. “It’s just such an amazing race.”
Sha’Carri Richardson finished fourth, ending her chances of competing in the 200m in France. Richardson, who had won the 100m trials last week, trailed behind Thomas, Brittany Brown, and McKenzie Long despite a strong start over the first 40 meters.
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