The Moral Dilemma of Competing in the Olympics During a Pandemic

Competing in the Olympics is the ultimate dream for most athletes, with years of training and sacrifice leading up to the moment of competing on the world stage. However, when faced with the dilemma of potentially competing while infected with COVID-19, the decision becomes morally complex. Justin Gatlin, a USA track legend, defended Noah Lyles’ choice to compete despite testing positive for the virus, citing the importance of the Olympic dream.

Noah Lyles’ decision to compete in the 200-meter final while symptomatic for COVID-19 sparked controversy and divided opinions in the sports world. Many believed that Lyles endangered his fellow competitors and the public by choosing to run despite his condition. However, Gatlin stood by Lyles, emphasizing the significance of the Olympic Games and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity they present.

Unlike annual sporting events like the NBA Finals or the Super Bowl, the Olympics occur only once every four years. This rarity adds pressure to athletes like Lyles, who may feel that they have no choice but to compete, regardless of the circumstances. The intense competition and limited opportunities to participate make it difficult for athletes to pass up the chance to represent their country on the world stage.

While Gatlin acknowledged the seriousness of COVID-19, citing a family member who had passed away from the disease, he believed that advancements in medicine had mitigated some of the risks. He argued that Lyles’ determination to compete stemmed from his unwavering commitment to his Olympic dreams, rather than a disregard for public health. However, the decision to compete while infected raises ethical questions about prioritizing personal ambitions over the well-being of others.

Despite winning the bronze in the 200-meter event, Lyles ultimately chose to opt out of Team USA’s 4×100 event to focus on recovery. The team’s loss without him highlighted the potential consequences of competing while infected, even with minor tweaks. Gatlin’s belief that the race’s outcome could have been different without Lyles underscores the delicate balance between individual ambitions and collective well-being in the context of a global health crisis.