Olympic legend Carl Lewis has voiced his frustration and disappointment over Team USA’s performance in athletics at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Despite the team securing 14 gold medals in athletics, the disqualification of the men’s 4x100m relay team has particularly incensed Lewis. The team was disqualified due to an illegal baton pass, which occurred when Christian Coleman handed the baton to Kenny Bednarek outside the exchange zone. Lewis, a nine-time Olympic gold medalist, expressed his anger on social media, calling for a complete overhaul of the system that he believes prioritizes relationships over winning.
Lewis’s criticism didn’t stop at the disqualification. He expressed deep dissatisfaction with how the relay team was managed, specifically pointing out the decision to reorder the entire relay after Noah Lyles was unable to run due to illness. According to NBC Olympics’ Lewis Johnson, Lewis was “furious” and blamed the system for not being set up to support the athletes in achieving their best results. He suggested that only the anchor leg should have been replaced rather than rearranging the entire team, which he believes contributed to the disastrous outcome.
The former athlete’s comments have ignited discussions online, with many fans and commentators agreeing with his assessment. Some have even called for Lewis to take on a coaching role for Team USA in preparation for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. Fans are urging him to step in and help guide the team, with some suggesting that his experience and expertise could be invaluable in avoiding similar mistakes in the future.
USA Track & Field has declined to comment on Lewis’s remarks, but the incident has raised questions about the organization’s approach to managing its athletes and preparing for major competitions. Lewis’s outspoken criticism reflects a broader concern about the state of American track and field and highlights the need for potential changes ahead of the next Olympic Games.
