Noah Lyles continues to make an impact far beyond the track, earning admiration from legendary athlete Jackie Joyner-Kersee for his unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy. Through the Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation—an initiative he co-founded with his brother Josephus—the world champion sprinter is working to empower young people by promoting wellness, resilience, and community support.
The foundation’s most recent milestone was a vibrant Disco Brunch Fundraiser held at the Mission Inn Resort & Club. The event brought together supporters, athletes, and partners dedicated to strengthening youth wellness programs. Joyner-Kersee served as the keynote speaker, offering powerful insight shaped by decades of experience as one of track and field’s true icons.
The Lyles brothers shared their gratitude on social media after the event, highlighting the sense of unity and purpose that filled the room. They expressed that seeing so many people gather to support their mission reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces for young people to grow—physically, mentally, and academically. While the total amount raised was not revealed, they emphasized that every contribution helps sustain programs focused on mental health awareness, anti-bullying efforts, and college preparation.
Joyner-Kersee, a long-standing advocate for athlete well-being, found Lyles’ transparency especially meaningful. She has often spoken about the stigma athletes face when addressing personal struggles, noting that even the most accomplished competitors navigate intense pressure behind the scenes. At the event, she publicly applauded Lyles for his courage in speaking openly about his mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, asthma, ADHD, and dyslexia.
Her message to Lyles was heartfelt and direct. She acknowledged that many athletes excel in public yet quietly confront emotional battles that few recognize. She encouraged him to continue using his platform to break barriers, reminding him that honest conversations help others feel less alone.
Lyles, one of the most decorated sprinters of his generation, has become a prominent voice for athlete mental health, particularly after sharing his struggles during the Tokyo Olympics. His willingness to speak up has resonated with fans, fellow athletes, and youth facing similar obstacles.
As his foundation expands its reach, Lyles’ influence extends far beyond medals and records. His leadership, combined with Joyner-Kersee’s support, is inspiring a new generation to embrace vulnerability, seek help when needed, and pursue greatness with confidence and compassion.
