Turkish shooter gains viral fame for unique shooting style

Yusuf Dikeç has become an icon of the Paris 2024 Olympics after starring in one of the most viral moments of the competition.

The 51-year-old Turkish shooter, who won a silver medal in mixed shooting, is making headlines for his distinctive shooting style: without any protective gear, only his glasses to see and earplugs for hearing.

“I don’t need any special equipment. I’m a natural shooter,” Dikeç said in an interview with the Turkish channel TGRT.

What has captivated the public the most is his habit of shooting with one hand in his pocket, as if it were nothing.

“In reality, this is my usual shooting position. It helps keep the body more balanced and stable. Even the slightest movement can cause deviations,” Dikeç added.

The Turkish shooter won the silver medal in the 10-meter mixed shooting event alongside his compatriot Sevval Ilayda, after losing 16-14 in the final to Serbia (Zorana Arunovic and Damir Mikek).

Over 20 Years of Career

Yusuf Dikeç was born on January 1, 1973 (51 years old) in the village of Tasoluk in the Kahramanmaras province and has been a shooter since 2001.

His achievements include several national championships in Turkey, and he holds records in various pistol shooting categories.