Noah Lyles Breaks Michael Johnson's USA Trials 200m Record to Qualify for Olympics

American track star Noah Lyles broke Michael Johnson's 28-year-old record in the 200-meter sprint at the U.S. Track & Field Olympic Team Trials, running a scorching 19.53-second time to qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Lyles, who is considered the favorite to win gold in the Paris race, overcame a quick start from second-place Kenny Bednarek, who ran an impressive 19.59-second time. Johnson's record was 19.66 seconds, meaning both Lyles and Bednarek shattered the mark.

"The U.S. has been dominating. We've had two medalists at least at each world championship and Olympics since 2021," Lyles told reporters after the race. "So the 200, we definitely have a strong, strong [chance] for sweeping it."

It is worth noting the times were aided by wind.

Lyles is still well off the world record time of 19.19 seconds, which is owned by Usain Bolt. The Jamaican legend also holds the Olympic record time at 19.30 seconds.

Lyles' career-best time came in July 2022, when he ran a stellar 19.31-second race in Oregon. He's considered the overwhelming favorite to take home the gold medal at the Olympics, giving him a chance to atone for his bronze at the 2020 Summer Games.