Lyles and Richardson dominate 100m at U.S. track championships

Noah Lyles and Sha'Carri Richardson claimed victory in the 100-meter races at the U.S. track and field championships on Friday night at Icahn Stadium in New York City. Lyles, the reigning Olympic champion, finished in a world-leading 9.79 seconds, matching his personal best from the 2024 Paris Olympics. Richardson, the 2023 world champion, won the women's race in 10.77 seconds, equaling her season's best time. Richardson made up ground after a slow start to defeat training partner Kayla White by 0.13 seconds, while Lyles recovered from an early deficit to surge past the field. In the men's race, Ronnie Baker placed second and Kenny Bednarek third, both in 9.79 seconds; Christian Coleman finished fourth in 9.93 seconds.

Richardson highlighted her physical and mental recovery after battling injuries the previous year. "It feels phenomenal to be back in a better place — healthy, mentally, physically, emotionally," she said. This was her third national 100-meter title. She is building toward world championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, drawing on momentum from her gold medal at the 2023 world championships and silver at the 2024 Paris Games.

Lyles, 29, emphasized his dominance despite the absence of major international competitions in 2026. "I did what I do," he said in his postrace interview, adding that he was "scared for y'all next year" as he prepares for upcoming championships. This was his third national title in the 100 meters. Lyles recently married in April and attended a FIFA World Cup game. He signed a trading card bearing his image after the race, which he planned to give to a fan.