At the World Athletic Championship meet, the US achieved a historic feat. Six-time world champion Noah Lyles has established himself as one of the top sprinters in the world. The 26 YO athlete has completed a ‘Golden Hatric’ this time. 

However, Lyles didn’t just stop at celebrating his achievements. In a post-race press conference, he took the opportunity to address a common notion held by NBA teams. He criticized NBA teams for representing themselves as “world champions” when the league only includes teams from the United States and Canada.

Lyles made a bold statement after making three golds for the US

Lyles is the reigning Olympic champion in the 200m. He made history this year by becoming the first athlete to win the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay in the same event. He also set a new championship record in the 200m with a time of 19.67 seconds.

However, amidst his victories, Lyles made a bold statement in a press conference after his wins. According to Lyles, NBA teams seem to operate under the belief that their world is separate from the rest of the world, an attitude which he firmly disagrees with. He expressed frustration at their perceived arrogance in representing the world.  

He criticized NBA franchises for declaring themselves “world champions”, arguing that such a title does not accurately represent the global nature of sports. 

Lyles blasts at NBA teams for their arrogance

“I watch the NBA finals and they have ‘world champions’ on their head. World champion of what? The United States?”, Lyles questioned during a press conference. He argued that while he loves the U.S., but NBA does not represent the entire world. 

READ MORE: Usain Bolt’s Favourite Rival, Who Noah Lyles Destroyed, Shares Disappointing Statement After World Athletics Championship Loss: “I Shouldn’t Have Been Here”

Watch this story: Noah Lyles Eyeing on Shattering Another Record of Usain Bolt After Breaking the Sprinting Legend’s Record in Seven Years

His comments are even more true, especially when international athletes are dominating the NBA. Sure, the NBA has long been a league of American stars, but in recent years, there has been a growing trend of international players making big in the league.