Oblique Seville reveals personal issues after Noah Lyles’ bold panicking remark in World Championships heat

Noah Lyles looked sharp in Tokyo on September 13, 2025. He won his 100m heat in 9.95 seconds. Jamaican rival Oblique Seville struggled at the start. He still finished in 9.93 seconds but looked nervous.

South Africa’s Gift Leotlela won the heat in a personal best 9.87 seconds. Lyles later said he saw Seville “panicking” before the race. Their rivalry has now become even more intense.

Noah Lyles dominates Tokyo 100m heat as Oblique Seville struggles with slow start

Noah Lyles ran smooth and safely in the heat. His 9.95 was enough to qualify for the semifinals. Oblique Seville’s start was very slow. He pushed hard to recover and clocked 9.93. Gift Leotlela stole the show with his 9.87 PB.Seville has beaten Lyles before. He won in London with 9.86.

He also won in Lausanne with 9.87 in heavy rain. Those results made him a big favorite for Tokyo. His slow start in the heat, however, raised doubts.Also Read: “If You Want To Be An A**Hole”: Dana White Clashes With Reporter Over Ali Act Before Canelo Álvarez Vs Terence Crawford Fight

Oblique Seville responds to Noah Lyles’ “panicking” remark and reveals personal issues

After the race, Noah Lyles spoke openly. “That man was panicking in the back,” he said. But he also called Seville “a gamer” who will fight back.Oblique Seville stayed calm when asked about the slow start. He told journalist Noel Francis: “You will not always get the perfect start… I’ve learned my lesson both ways.”

He also told Jamaican media that he will be ready for the semifinals and final.

American TV reporter Lewis Johnson pressed him further. He asked why Seville reacted late. Seville admitted he had personal issues. He refused to explain more but said “everything was okay.”Earlier this week, Usain Bolt said Seville and Kishane Thompson could go 1-2 in Tokyo. Now all eyes are on Seville. Can he recover and face Noah Lyles in the medal races?