SHAH ALAM - Turkish air pistol shooter Yusuf Dikec made headlines and captured hearts worldwide by clinching a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, all while using minimal gear.
Dikec, a seasoned air pistol shooter from Turkey proved that true talent and experience trump equipment by winning the silver medal in the mixed team 10-metre air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Partnering with Sevval Ilayda Tarhan, Dikec achieved this remarkable feat despite competing with limited gear, a testament to his skill and composure.
What set Dikec apart and made him an instant legend at the Paris 2024 Olympics Games was his unconventional approach.
Unlike his competitors, Dikec did not don specialised goggles or high-end ear protection.
Instead, he relied on regular prescription glasses and simple earplugs.
A viral image circulating on social media even shows him shooting with one hand in his pocket, a relaxed stance that captivated audiences worldwide.
The image of Dikec, embodying a blend of casualness and precision, quickly amassed over 21 million views on X, formerly known as Twitter, propelling him to internet stardom.
This display of skill and calm under pressure has inspired countless fans and fellow athletes.
At 51 years old, Dikec is no stranger to the Olympic stage, having competed in five Olympic Games since his debut at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Despite his extensive experience, the silver medal won in Paris marks his first Olympic medal, adding a significant milestone to his distinguished career.