‘Just Be Yourself!’ - Noah Lyles Sends Letsile Tebogo Candid Advice Following Tokyo Struggles

Botswana sprint sensation Letsile Tebogo endured a challenging week at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, facing a disqualification in the 100m final before finishing fourth in the 200m. 

Amid the disappointment, American sprint superstar Noah Lyles offered candid advice to the young athlete, emphasizing the importance of authenticity on and off the track.

Tebogo is the reigning Olympic champion in the 200 meters, but has been a shadow of the athlete he was in 2024, when he also had to deal with the unfortunate death of his mother.

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Speaking after the 200m final, Lyles, who retained his world title,  reflected on Tebogo’s immense talent and potential, urging him to embrace his unique personality as a competitor.

“Be yourself, man. I watched you in World Youth when you won the 100 meters — just do it. It’s you. Do the antics, put on the crown, own it. Don’t be scared of what people think,” Lyles said on the Mutwafu Nabila YouTube channel.

“It makes you so much more fun to compete against. Don’t worry about how others perceive you. There will always be criticism, but if you know who you are and what you bring, that’s what matters.”

Tebogo, who clocked a season-best 19.65 seconds in the 200m but narrowly missed the podium, admitted the Tokyo championships were emotionally taxing.

“I’m proud of my time — it’s my season’s best. Of course, I wanted a medal, but I gave it everything,” Tebogo said. “The 100m disqualification was hard to take, but I tried to focus on the 200m and push myself.”

Lyles, a four-time world champion in the 200m, also spoke about handling external pressure and media scrutiny, encouraging Tebogo to rely on his support network.

“I’ve been through a lot, and I have a very close family and support system. People who know you will always remind you who you are. Ignore the rest — the media, the critics — focus on your journey and the people who see your true character,” Lyles advised.

The guidance comes at a critical point in Tebogo’s career, as the young sprinter continues to establish himself on the global stage. 

While the week in Tokyo was bittersweet, the encouragement from a seasoned champion like Lyles serves as both motivation and mentorship for the 22-year-old.

Tebogo’s performances underscore his talent and potential, but Lyles’ message reminds him — and other young athletes — that success is not only about speed on the track but also confidence and self-belief.

As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Tebogo, who will be looking to translate his raw talent into podium finishes while staying true to the advice of one of the world’s sprinting greats.