The stage is set for an epic showdown in the men’s 200m final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The final is a highly anticipated clash between American world record holder Noah Lyles and Botswana’s Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo, two of the sport’s biggest stars.
Lyles, the reigning world champion, laid down a massive marker in the semi-finals, blistering to a time of 19.51 seconds, the fastest time in the world this year. The performance, which was just off his own world record pace, sent a clear message to the competition that he is in top form and hungry for a fourth consecutive world title.
“I surprised myself,” Lyles said after the semi-final. “I knew I was running fast when I exited the curve but I didn’t expect 19.51. Don’t miss the final, it’s going to be magical.”
Meanwhile, Letsile Tebogo, the 2024 Paris Olympic champion, has been in equally dazzling form. The 22-year-old clocked a solid 19.95 seconds in his semi-final, comfortably securing his place in the final. Tebogo, who was unfortunately disqualified for a false start in the 100m, is now fully focused on defending his 200m title.
The final promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both athletes at the peak of their careers. While Lyles is chasing a historic fourth world title, Tebogo is looking to reaffirm his status as the king of the 200m.
