U.S. sprinter Noah Lyles, the Olympic champion in the 100 meters and bronze medalist in the 200 meters in Paris, announced this Friday that he will not participate in the 4x100 relay as originally planned, marking the end of his participation in the Paris Olympics.

Lyles' decision comes just a day after the 200-meter final, where the American athlete competed while still recovering from COVID-19, which he contracted on Tuesday, August 6.

"First, I want to thank God for helping me get through these Olympic Games. Second, I want to congratulate Letsile Tebogo, Kenny Bednarek, and everyone else for an incredible Olympic 200-meter final. Finally, I want to thank everyone for the messages of support," Lyles said on social media.

"I believe this will mark the end of my 2024 Olympics. These weren't the Games I dreamed of, but they have left me with a lot of joy in my heart. I hope everyone enjoyed the show". 

"Whether you were cheering for me or against me, you have to admit you watched it, didn't you? See you next time. Sincerely, the fastest man in the world for the next four years!" he concluded.