World champion sprinter Noah Lyles has publicly criticized his sponsor, Adidas, for inviting him to a shoe release event for Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards. The outspoken athlete expressed his disappointment with the brand’s decision, questioning the logic behind the invitation.
The tweet from Legion Hoops reads:
“Noah Lyles declined Adidas’ invitation to an Anthony Edwards event last year: ‘You want to do what? You want to invite me to [an event for] a man who has not even been to an NBA Finals? In a sport that you don’t even care about? And you’re giving him a shoe?’”
Noah Lyles declined Adidas’ invitation to an Anthony Edwards event last year:
“You want to do what? You want to invite me to [an event for] a man who has not even been to an NBA Finals? In a sport that you don’t even care about? And you’re giving him a shoe?”
(via @TIME) pic.twitter.com/BjxznPvcVa
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 11, 2024
This statement by Lyles underscores his frustration with being invited to an event for an athlete who, despite his talent, has not yet reached the pinnacle of his sport. Lyles, a six-time world champion, felt that his achievements were being overshadowed.
The Context Behind Noah Lyles’ Decision
Noah Lyles’ decision to decline the invitation was not just about the event itself, but about the broader message it sent. Lyles has been a dominant force in track and field, a sport that often does not receive the same level of attention or commercial support as basketball. By inviting him to an event for Anthony Edwards, Adidas inadvertently highlighted the disparity in recognition between athletes from different sports.
Lyles’ response was a call for greater respect and acknowledgment of his accomplishments. He questioned why Adidas would prioritize an event for an NBA player who has not yet reached the finals over celebrating a world champion in track and field.
ALSO READ:LeBron James Officially Names 2024 Olympic Team USA “The Avengers”
