’World champion of what?’ Noah Lyles takes swipe at NBA players

Following his win in the 200m — part of his 3-for-3 performance at the world athletics championships in Budapest — US sprinter Noah Lyles took a swipe at the NBA for calling the season winners world champions. Subscribe to Guardian Sport ► ’I watch the NBA Finals and they have “world champion“ on their head. World champion of what? The United States?” Lyles said. ’Don’t get me wrong. I love the US — at times — but that ain’t the world,’ the 26-year-old added. Lyles elaborated to say that track is a true international sport, adding ’we have almost every country out here fighting, thriving, putting on their flag’. His playful comments drew a reaction from a number of NBA players, with Kevin Durant commenting on Instagram: ’Somebody help this brother’. The Guardian publishes independent journalism, made possible by supporters. Contribute to The Guardian today ► Website ► Facebook ► Twitter ► Instagram ► The Guardian on YouTube: The Guardian ► Guardian News ► Guardian Australia ► Guardian Football ► Guardian Live ► #NoahLyles #Athletics #NBA #WorldAthleticsChampionships