Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec has become an unexpected star of the 2024 Paris Olympics, capturing global attention with his unconventional approach and silver medal win in the mixed 10m air pistol event. The 51-year-old veteran athlete, competing in his fifth Olympics, stood out for his casual demeanor and lack of specialized equipment.Unlike his competitors, Dikec chose to forgo protective gear such as specialized lenses and sound-reducing earphones, opting instead for his everyday glasses and small earplugs. His relaxed stance, often with one hand in his pocket, has made him an internet sensation, with social media users dubbing him everything from a ‘professional assassin’ to an ‘absolute legend’.When asked about his unique approach, Dikec explained, ‘I shoot with both eyes, most shooters do it with one. So I didn’t want all that equipment. Shooting with two eyes — I believe that it’s better. I’ve done a lot of research on it, so I didn’t need the equipment’. This technique, combined with his years of experience, including multiple world and European championship titles, contributed to his impressive performance.Dikec’s silver medal, won alongside his partner Sevval Ilayda Tarhan, marks Turkey’s first-ever Olympic medal in shooting. The achievement has been celebrated as a historic moment for the country, with Turkey’s president declaring, ‘This medal belongs to the REPUBLIC OF TURKEY’.The shooter’s success and viral fame have not only highlighted his individual talent but also sparked discussions about different approaches to competitive shooting. As the Olympics continue, Dikec’s performance serves as a reminder that sometimes, unconventional methods can lead to extraordinary results.
Key points
- Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec won a silver medal in the mixed 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
- Dikec’s unconventional approach, including not using specialized equipment and shooting with both eyes open, has made him an internet sensation.
- His silver medal marks Turkey’s first-ever Olympic medal in shooting.
Contradictions👾While most sources report that Dikec used no special equipment, one source mentions he wore small earplugs, contradicting reports that he used no ear protection at all.
