Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec made headlines at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 by securing a silver medal in the 10m air pistol mixed team event.
What made his victory even more remarkable was that he achieved this feat without the proper shooting gear.
The 51-year-old Dikec teamed with Sevval Ilayda Tarhan to claim his first Olympic medal in his fifth appearance. He made his debut back in 2008 at the Beijing Olympics.
Dikec and Tarhan competed in the nail-biting final against Serbia’s Zorana Arunovic and Damir Mikec, who came from behind to win the gold. Meanwhile, Indian shooters Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh secured the bronze medal.
Meanwhile, Yusuf Dikec finally opened up on his major success, which he achieved with a ground-breaking yet relaxed demeanour, and thanked Almighty Allah for the outcome before dedicating his medal to the Turkish state and nation.
“I am very happy that we won the medal. Allah gave me the chance to do this,” said Dikec.
“I present my medal to the great Turkish nation and state,” he added.
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He further commented on his reason for success, which was aiming with his both eyes open and no special equipment.
Notably, most shooters rely on specialized eyewear for improved accuracy and ear protectors to block out noise during competitions but Yusuf Dikec ditched each of the equipment and yet managed to win a medal at the Paris Olympics.
“I did not need special equipment. I am a natural, a natural shooter,” Dikec told Turkish media.
“Success doesn’t come with your hands in your pockets,” he was quoted as saying.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning over two decades, Yusuf Dikec has achieved remarkable success, securing numerous gold medals in prestigious events such as the ISSF World Championships, ISSF World Cup, European Championships, and European Games.
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