Story Behind Yusuf Dikec, Turkish Olympian Who Shot Silver Without Optical Gadgets

Yusuf Dikeç, a sport shooter from Turkey, has become an internet sensation after winning a silver medal in the mixed team 10-meter air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Dikeç's unique style and relaxed demeanor, marked by casual attire and a laid-back attitude, have drawn significant attention. Partnering with Şevval İlayda Tarhan, Dikeç and his teammate secured Turkey’s first-ever Olympic medal in shooting, making him a standout figure of this year's Games.

Born on January 1, 1973, in Taşoluk village, Göksun district, Kahramanmaraş Province, Dikeç began his educational journey in his local village before completing secondary education in Göksun. He enrolled in the Military School of Gendarmerie in Ankara in 1994, graduated as a corporal, and served in Mardin. After returning to the Military School and graduating as a sergeant, he was stationed in Istanbul before being assigned to Jandarma Gücü Sports Club in Ankara.

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Dikeç’s foray into shooting is a remarkable story. He took up the sport following a heated argument with his ex-wife and credits his success to his newfound passion for spending time with his children and a determination to prove his ex wrong. 'I never thought I'd be here,' Dikeç remarked with a shrug. 'I was just aiming for a weekend with the kids.'

Now 52 years old, Dikeç works as a mechanic in a small garage in Istanbul. His approach to shooting is unconventional—eschewing specialty gear and rigorous training for everyday jeans and a T-shirt. His unorthodox style has baffled professional shooters. 'He just shows up, shoots a near-perfect round, and then asks if there’s a smoking area nearby,' one observer noted.

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Dikeç’s Olympic win was marked by his stoic demeanor on the podium, where he famously declared, 'Sharon, if you’re watching this, I want my dog back.' Having started sport shooting in 2001, Dikeç is also a member of Turkey’s military and national shooting teams and has been educated in physical education and sports at Gazi University in Ankara. His unexpected success and relaxed demeanor have made him a memorable figure at the 2024 Olympics.