Viral shooter Yusuf Dikec reacts to internet fame and memes
Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec, known for his calm and relaxed posture, made headlines at the Paris Olympics 2024 by winning silver in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event with teammate Sevval Ilayda Tarhan. The 51-year-old’s unique stance, with one hand in his pocket and minimal gear, has inspired numerous memes and made him one of the most searched personalities on the internet.
Speaking to Turkey’s Anadolu news agency, Dikec explained his posture: "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."
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Dikec’s journey to the Olympics has been a long and dedicated one. A former sergeant in the Turkish Army, he began sport shooting in 2001 and has since become a five-time Olympian, competing in the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Games. Despite misinformation about his background, his achievements are 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," Dikec stated.
In addition to his Olympic success, Dikec has won medals in European and world championships, the Mediterranean Games, and the Islamic Solidarity Games. Reflecting on his career, he remarked, "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."
Dikec also shared a touching moment with his nine-year-old daughter, Basak, before the competition. "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.'"
As Dikec continues to inspire young Turkish shooters, 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."