"I've got the legs coming tomorrow" - Noah Lyles promises to bring special Yu-Gi-Oh! card for the 200m semi-finals at the US Olympic Trials

Reigning triple world champion Noah Lyles has promised track and field fans to complete his distinctive Yu-Gi-Oh! Exodia card series as he prepares to participate in the 200m semi-finals at the 2024 US Olympic Trials. Lyles is currently present at the iconic Hayward Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, to book his spots for the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024.

The Florida-based track-running sensation has already punched an Olympic ticket in the 100-meter event after winning the final on Sunday, June 23.

Lyles won the 100-meter event, equaling his personal best of 9.83 seconds, surpassing Kenny Bednarek and Fred Kerley, who took second and third spots, respectively, in the race.

He also participated in his marquee 200m event in Thursday's opening round and won the race in dominating fashion in a time of 20.10 seconds. He is now bound for the semis to be held on Friday, June 28.

Besides his blazing-fast speed at the trials, Noah Lyles is garnering attention for showcasing the Yu-Gi-Oh! Cards (from a Japanese manga series) at the beginning of every race in Hayward Field. Interestingly, Lyles was carrying these cards in a briefcase that also became a mystery for the fans as he was frequently seen with it.

Following his 200m prelims victory on Thursday, Noah Lyles was asked about the cards and what was coming at Friday's event. The runner replied (via NBC Sports):

"I pulled out Exodia [card] for the finals of the 100m, but now it's time to build the whole thing. I got the left and right arms [today] and I've got the legs coming tomorrow."

Noah Lyles' love for anime and manga series

Athletics - Olympics: Day 12

Noah Lyles is renowned as one of the fastest runners in the world and has won six World Championships gold and an Olympic bronze with his athletic prowess. Beyond his track pursuits, Lyles is also well known for off-track antics, especially his love for anime and manga series.

The 26-year-old athlete has expressed his love for anime quite a few times, and in 2021, during an Instagram live, Lyles revealed the names of his favorite anime and manga series.

"My favorite anime is Full Metal Alchemist. There are two versions – Full Metal Alchemist and Full Metal Alchemist Brotherhood," he said.

While disclosing his favorite anime, the sprinter added:

"And then my favorite manga is called Cage of Eden. It was one of the first long mangas I ever read. And I got like truly into the world."

He further added that he got so hooked on Cage of Eden that he would stay up late at night and used to read the series from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m., sacrificing his sleep.