Yusuf Dikec, a 51-year-old shooter from Turkey, recently captured the world’s attention with his relaxed and unique shooting style at the Paris Olympics 2024. Dikec won a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event with his teammate Sevval Ilayda Tarhan. His unusual stance, which involved one hand in his pocket and minimal gear, quickly went viral, inspiring numerous memes and making him one of the most searched personalities on the internet.
In an interview with Turkey’s Anadolu news agency, Dikec explained why he chose this posture. He said, “It was the position where I felt the most comfortable and could keep my body the most stable. Although I looked calm on the outside, there was a storm inside.” He added, “I never expected it to create such a stir. I just got into position and took the shot.”
A Long Road to Olympic Success
Dikec’s path to the Olympics was not easy. He served as a sergeant in the Turkish Army and began sport shooting in 2001. Over the years, he became a five-time Olympian, competing in the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Games. Despite some misconceptions about his background, Dikec emphasized that his success is the result of over two decades of hard work. “People sometimes say, ‘It’s so easy, you won a medal with your hand in your pocket.’ That’s what shows on the outside, but behind this medal is 24 years of hard work. I train for 4-5 hours six days a week,” he said.
In addition to his Olympic achievements, Dikec has won medals in European and world championships, the Mediterranean Games, and the Islamic Solidarity Games. Reflecting on his career, he noted, “What was missing in that collection was an Olympic medal. The collection would have been complete if it was gold. If I won a gold in this Olympics, I was thinking of quitting.”
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A Touching Moment with His Daughter
Before the competition, Dikec shared a touching moment with his nine-year-old daughter, Basak. He said, “My only asset in the world, my source of life, is Basak. She gave me tips before she left. When I asked her, ‘How are you doing in gymnastics,’ she replied, ‘I tell myself, you can do it, Basak, you can win. You do the same.'”
Dikec’s story doesn’t end with his viral fame. He continues to inspire young shooters in Turkey and around the world. He emphasized the importance of effort and perseverance: “What is important is not wanting something very much, but the effort you put in to achieve what you want.”
A Testament to Perseverance and Dedication
Dikec’s journey to internet fame began with his simple and relaxed approach to shooting, but it quickly became a story of hard work, dedication, and inspiration. His ability to remain calm under pressure, combined with his unique style, has made him a role model for many aspiring athletes. Dikec’s success reminds us that behind every moment of triumph lies years of perseverance and determination.
As he continues to compete and inspire, Dikec’s message is clear: Success comes from relentless effort and the belief that you can achieve your goals, no matter how unconventional your approach may be. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one can have when they stay true to themselves and their unique methods.
