Lyles Aims for Record Sixth Title at WDL Final in Zurich

Lyles Aims for Record Sixth Title at WDL Final in Zurich

 

Zurich, August 2025 – Olympic champion Noah Lyles is setting his sights on history as he prepares to compete in the men’s 200 m at the Wanda Diamond League (WDL) Final, taking place August 28 at Zurich’s Letzigrund Stadium. A win would elevate Lyles to a record-breaking sixth Diamond Trophy, making him the first track athlete ever to achieve such a feat.

Lyles has already secured five Diamond League titles—four in the 200 m and one in the 100 m. A victory this year would not only mark a personal benchmark but also bring him within one title of the overall record of seven, jointly held by Renaud Lavillenie (pole vault) and Christian Taylor (triple jump).

Having started the Diamond League season late due to injury, Lyles entered the fray as a global wildcard, still eligible for the Diamond Trophy—as long as he made at least one appearance on the “Road to the Final.” Since returning in July, he’s shown strong form: winning the 200 m in Monaco and finishing runner-up twice in the 100 m—once in London and again in Silesia.

He’ll face a formidable opponent in Letsile Tebogo of Botswana, the Paris 2024 Olympic 200 m gold medallist, who is chasing his first-ever Diamond Trophy.

The WDL Final stretches over two days: August 27, which features five field events on a street circuit at Zurich’s Sechseläutenplatz, and August 28, when the remaining 27 disciplines—including the 200 m showdown—will be held at Letzigrund Stadium in an electrifying four‑hour spectacle.

The press conferences preceding the event will include key appearances by Lyles and Tebogo, scheduled for Wednesday, August 27, at 13:00 local time (GMT+2).

With the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo looming in mid‑September, Lyles sees Zurich not just as the season’s climax but as a launchpad to peak form. “With Weltklasse Zurich being the last race before the World Championships, I am looking to run something special,” he affirmed.

Why This Moment Matters

Historic aspiration—A victory would make Noah Lyles the first track athlete to claim six Diamond League titles.

A comeback narrative—After delaying the season due to injury, Lyles has returned with momentum and noteworthy results.

High-stakes rivalry—He matches stride-for-stride with Tebogo, offering a compelling showdown.

Strategic timing—The Final serves as the perfect prelude to the World Championships, allowing Lyles to fine-tune his form under pressure.

Summary: On August 28 in Zurich, Noah Lyles has the chance to solidify his legacy by becoming the first track athlete to win six Wanda Diamond League titles. His path—marked by a late start, consistent performance, and fierce competition from Olympic rivals—culminates at a high-profile meet that also sets the stage for Tokyo. With both history and momentum on the line, all eyes are on Weltklasse Zurich.