Yusuf Dikec, a Turkish pistol shooter, gained notoriety on social media for his supposedly carefree demeanour when winning a silver medal in the 2024 Olympics.
The most popular photos of Dikec have him shooting while wearing a T-shirt, one hand in his pocket, normal-looking spectacles, and a neutral expression on his face. He’s been compared to a hitman or an ordinary guy competing in the Olympics.
But the 51-year-old is no rookie. Since 2008, he has participated in every Summer Olympics.
Certain memes compare Dikec to his Serbian opponent Damir Mikec, who had a massive pair of ear defenders on, a lens over one eye, and a blinder over the other.
In mixed team 10-meter air pistol shooting on Tuesday, Dikec and Sevval Ilayda Tarhan took home the silver medal. It was Turkey’s first-ever shooting medal at the Olympics.
For Serbia, Mikec and Zorana Arunovic took home gold. Sarabjot Singh and Manu Bhaker of India took home the bronze.
Tarhan, his teammate, was fighting in contrast to Dikec, wearing a visor, big ear protectors, and braids in the Turkish flag’s red and white colours. With one hand in her pocket, she was also filming.
Dikec finished the Olympics in Paris having placed 13th in his event. However, he is anticipating the 2028 Games. He stated on Tuesday, “I hope next in Los Angeles (for) a gold medal.”
What does Dikec think about the trend?
Dikec posted a video compilation of self-satirizing memes in Turkish on his Instagram feed, suggesting that he embraces the trend.
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Approximately three hours’ drive south of Paris was where the shooting took place. On Wednesday, Dikec and Tarhan travelled to the French capital, where they were welcomed with applause at the Champions Park, an outdoor area where medal winners celebrate with supporters.
