The Paris Olympics 2024 is creating new heroes every day. Whether it’s Katie Ledecky or Simone Biles or even the ‘The Last Supper’ opening ceremony controversy, audiences are witnessing jaw-dropping events. On August 1, 2024, we saw another impressive feat from Turkish sharpshooter Yusuf Dikeç who won the silver medal in the air pistol mixed team event. Interestingly, Dikeç didn’t need special lenses or big ear protectors to win. With one hand in his pants pocket, the 51-year-old shot his way to second place, marking a historic moment for his country and becoming an internet sensation overnight. Meanwhile, Serbia’s Damir Mikec and Zorana Arunović won gold, and India’s Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh took bronze.
So the question remains, Yusuf Dikeç purposely held the second position that people don’t suspect he’s a hitman or it’s something else. Well, this is just an internet theory for memes feed. Dikeç used to serve in the Turkish military.
From Beijing To Paris
Yusuf Dikeç, the 51-year-old Turkish shooter, debuted at the Beijing Games in 2008. Then, competing in his fifth Olympics in the Paris Olympics 2024, he won his first medal in the air pistol mixed team event. He achieved this after an exceptional career with the pistol.
Usually, shooters wear protective earpieces, special glasses, and eye covers. However, Dikeç shot in a T-shirt with one hand in his pocket. He wore regular glasses and kept a calm face. Consequently, people compared him to an ordinary guy or even a hitman.
Although Dikeç has previously won two gold medals in the ISSF World Championships, one in the ISSF World Cup, and five in the European Shooting Championships.
Sevval Ilayda Tarhan and Dikeç won the silver medal in the air pistol mixed team event, losing the final to Serbia 16-14. This achievement marked Türkiye’s first-ever Olympic medal in shooting.
Despite winning silver in the air pistol mixed team event at the Paris Olympics 2024, his “aura” made him an internet sensation overnight.
A Silver Medal and a Casual Stance
Usually, shooters have the freedom of how they want to dress for competitions. For instance, many shooters wear visors to reduce glare or blinders for better focus.
However, Yusuf Dikeç chose not to wear any gear. He stated that he dislikes using lenses, eye caps, or ear protection during competitions. And also stressed that he feels uncomfortable with such gear. Moreover, after his performance, Yusuf Dikeç said, “I’m a natural shooter.” He also mentioned, “My technique is rare. I shoot with both eyes open. Even the referees are surprised.”
However, it’s not true that Dikeç wasn’t wearing any gear. Although the viral image did not show them, he had yellow earplugs to block distractions.
The Internet Buzz
Citizens are raving about Yusuf Dikeç’s performance and his ‘cool’ casual demeanor. Consequently, he has become the subject of a meme fest on social media. The social media platform X is now filled with applause and memes about Yusuf Dikeç.
Teamwork and Triumph: Dikeç’s Take
Yusuf Dikeç and his team received a warm welcome as they arrived in Istanbul after winning the silver medal in the air pistol mixed team event at the Paris Olympics 2024. They were greeted by Ministry officials and enthusiastic young athletes.
According to Turkish news website AA, Yusuf Dikeç shared that despite appearing calm, he and his team felt intense pressure. He mentioned that he didn’t wear any equipment because he found them uncomfortable. Instead, he focused on showcasing his natural talent. Dikeç also mentioned that the global media attention has been uplifting and motivating. He was surprised by the level of recognition he received. He ranked among the top 5 or 7 at the Paris Olympics 2024 and earned his medal following the quota. Moreover, he noted that the achievement represents not just their effort but also the support of 85 million people in Türkiye. Dikeç likened teamwork to a theater production, where each person has a specific role. Further, he emphasized that effective teamwork leads to remarkable results.The 51-year-old retired senior master sergeant mentioned that he secured the quota a bit later this year. And stressed that he aims for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, saying, “We will get the gold medal in 2028, and then, God willing, I think it is time to let it go.”
