TEAM USA’s performance in the 100-meter relay on Friday ended in disaster, leaving fans frustrated and disappointed. Despite missing superstar Noah Lyles, who was sidelined due to a COVID-19 diagnosis, the American team struggled with basic baton exchanges—a critical element in relay races—and faced harsh criticism on social media.
In a shocking turn of events, the Canadian team secured a stunning victory in the 4×100-meter final, with South Africa and Great Britain claiming silver and bronze, respectively. Meanwhile, Team USA failed to medal in this event for the fifth consecutive Olympics, a streak that has become a point of concern.
The U.S. team’s hopes were dashed early in the race when a botched baton handoff between Christian Coleman and Kenny Bednarek on the first exchange set them back. Bednarek appeared to start his leg too soon, resulting in a fumbled handoff that ultimately disqualified the team for passing the baton outside the designated exchange zone. The Americans finished seventh, adding to the frustration as fans voiced their disappointment online.
One fan remarked, “These guys literally have one job and still can’t figure it out in 4 years once again. Blow it all up,” while another asked, “This is what you do when it matters?” A third simply stated, “I was very disappointed with the performance the men did in the 4x100m Relay.”
Lyles, who would likely have run the third leg of the relay, was aiming for a historic achievement—potentially winning his third gold medal at these Games, which would have placed him alongside legendary sprinters Usain Bolt, Carl Lewis, Bobby Morrow, and Jesse Owens, all of whom achieved a sprint treble in a single Olympics. However, his dreams were cut short when he tested positive for COVID-19 just days after securing a bronze medal in the 200 meters.
Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Lyles shared on Instagram, “It is not the Olympics I dreamed of, but it has left me with so much Joy in my heart. I hope everyone enjoyed the show.” Unfortunately, he could only watch as his teammates faltered in the relay.
NBC broadcaster Ato Boldon didn’t mince words, calling the failed handoff “a disaster” as the replay of the incident aired. The mishap was particularly painful, given that Coleman had already been involved in a near-disaster during the semifinals, which almost cost Team USA their place in the final. The string of errors underscores the ongoing struggles the American relay teams have faced in recent years, raising questions about their preparation and execution on the world stage.
