Noah Lyles’s Gojo Reference in Paris Olympics 2024 Has Jujutsu Kaisen Fans Cock-a-Hoop

Despite its current status as one of the most popular series in the world, few would have expected Jujutsu Kaisen to be referenced at the Paris Olympics 2024. Yet, that is exactly what occurred when Noah Lyles invoked Satoru Gojo’s Domain Expansion before the finals of the 200-meter dash.

Despite facing criticism for his comments about NBA Champions being called “World Champions,”Noah Lyles has only continued to gain popularity as time goes on. His remarks may have been controversial, but he proved his point by winning the gold medal in the 100-meter race at the Olympics.

No Change

On August 8, 2024, the Paris Olympics 2024 held the final race for the 200-meter dash. As the camera focused on American track-and-field sprinter Noah Lyles right before the race, he made a gesture with his hand resembling the iconic Domain Expansion sign of Jujutsu Kaisen’s popular character, Satoru Gojo.

As previously stated, Noah Lyles had already secured the gold medal for the 100-meter dash. However, he didn’t settle there as he went on to also claim the Bronze medal for the 200-meter dash.

Hinata Shoyo as seen in Haikyuu!! anime (Image via Production I.G)

Interestingly, this is not the only anime nod seen at the Paris Olympics 2024, as numerous athletes mimicked the iconic poses of One Piece’s Monkey D. Luffy before their competitions. Additionally, Japan’s volleyball matches were accompanied by the opening theme songs of Haikyuu. The most notable game was Japan’s match against Argentina, which brought the conclusion of the Haikyuu manga to reality.

Furthermore, one of the events began with the playing of Goku’s Ultra Instinct theme music.

How Fans Reacted to Noah Lyles’s Jujutsu Kaisen Reference at Paris Olympics 2024

Satoru Gojo as seen in Jujutsu Kaisen (Image via MAPPA)

It was a delight for Jujutsu Kaisen enthusiasts to witness a track-and-field sprinter imitate Satoru Gojo’s hand gesture, which further showcased the immense impact of the anime series. It is natural for individuals to experience joy upon seeing their interests being acknowledged in popular media. This was also evident when Noah Lyles referenced Gojo while competing in the 200-meter dash.

“Both of them have Aura so it makes sense,”one fan said.

“SCREAMED WHEN I SAW IT,”another added.

In addition, some fans pointed out that Noah Lyles’ hand sign was fitting because he exuded an “aura”reminiscent of Satoru Gojo. Another fan even shared that they couldn’t contain their excitement when they saw the athlete strike the pose.

One fan even mentioned a dialogue from Gojo in the manga, “nah, I’d win,”which was fitting as Noah Lyles went on to win the Bronze medal in his race, despite Gojo losing the fight he was referring to.

“He took nah I’d win too seriously,”another fan said.

“And they tried to clown him. Won gold and got bronze with covid,”other fan said.

Additionally, some fans discussed the mockery directed towards the sprinter for not achieving first place in the 200-meter dash. Despite already securing the Gold medal in the 100-meter dash and earning a Bronze medal in the 200-meter dash despite battling COVID-19, it was illogical for him to face criticism for his impressive medal count.

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