The World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou are just weeks away, but Team USA will be without two of its biggest stars, reigning world champions Sha’Carri Richardson and Noah Lyles .
Last year, Noah Lyles and his teammates electrified the track in Nassau, clocking a world-leading 37.40 seconds in the men’s 4x100m. That wasn’t just a victory, it was a declaration of dominance. Who could forget Noah Lyles’ mic-drop moment when he smirked, “Rivalry between who?” in response to talks of a USA-Canada showdown? That confidence set the tone for Team USA’s sprint dominance heading into the Paris Olympics.
But this year, things look different. On April 22, USATF unveiled its 28-athlete roster for the World Athletics Relays Guangzhou, and two of the biggest names in track and field were missing. Whether it’s load management, individual training priorities, or strategic planning, their absence leaves a gap, and fans with plenty of questions.
Who Steps Up in Their Place?
While the star power of Noah Lyles and Richardson is undeniable, Team USA’s depth ensures they remain a formidable force.
The men’s squad will include Kenny Bednarek, Kyree King, and Courtney Lindsey, all part of last year’s gold-winning team are back. But the most exciting addition is Erriyon Knighton, the 20-year-old phenom who has already run 19.49 in the 200m, making him one of the fastest teenagers in history. His inclusion suggests Team USA isn’t just looking to defend, they’re aiming to dominate.
The women’s team sees even bigger changes. No Sha’Carri Richardson, no Gabby Thomas, no Celera Barnes, and no Melissa Jefferson. But stepping into the spotlight is Twanisha “TT” Terry, Richardson’s training partner and an Olympic gold medalist. Terry has been on the rise and now gets her chance to lead—whether blasting off the blocks or anchoring the relay. She’ll be joined by Mikiah Brisco, whose experience and raw speed add stability to a revamped squad.
What Does This Mean for the USA-Jamaica Rivalry?
For years, the USA vs. Jamaica relay battles were the stuff of legend. Think Usain Bolt’s 36.84 world record in London 2012, or the classic duels between Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Allyson Felix. But lately, the balance of power has shifted.
At the 2024 World Athletics Relays, Jamaica’s men finished seventh, while their women didn’t even make the final, a far cry from their glory days. Meanwhile, the U.S. has tightened its handoffs, deepened its talent pool, and reasserted its dominance.
But here’s the twist, Jamaica hasn’t announced its squad yet. Will we see Kishane Thompson, the new 100m sensation? Will legends like Fraser-Pryce and Shericka Jackson return? The suspense is real.
While the World Athletics Relays Guangzhou are crucial for Olympic qualification, Lyles and Richardson’s absence might be a calculated move, ensuring they peak when it matters most. For the athletes stepping in, this is a golden opportunity to prove they belong on the biggest stage.
