Turkish marksman Yusuf Dikeç has captured global attention after clinching a silver medal without using specialized equipment at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
At 51, Dikeç earned widespread admiration for his performance in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event, securing a silver medal alongside his partner Şevval İlayda Tarhan.
They narrowly missed the gold to Serbian shooters Zorana Arunović and Damir Mikec.
Social media erupted with astonishment as Dikeç shot without specialized glasses and ear protectors, tools typically used to enhance precision and reduce noise.
A widely shared photo shows Dikeç wearing his regular glasses and earplugs, with one hand in his pocket as he fires with the other.
His unique and composed approach left social media users in awe, earning him the status of an icon.
Many praised his calm demeanor, while others humorously noted his laid-back attitude during the competition.
The official Olympic Games account also acknowledged Dikeç and South Korea’s Kim Yeji for their unconventional methods, calling them “the Olympic #shootingsport stars we didn’t know we needed” in a post on X.
Dikeç is a veteran Olympian, having represented Turkey in the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Olympics.
A retired non-commissioned officer of the Turkish Gendarmerie, he also secured a bronze medal in the 10m air pistol event at the ISSF World Cup Final in Thailand in 2012.
