Yusuf Dikec has returned to the limelight in a stylish manner, clinching a gold medal at the European Championship in Istanbul. The 52-year-old Turkish shooter, known for his calm and effortless shooting style that captured attention at the 2024 Paris Olympics, showed his skill was no fluke by excelling on home turf once again.
Partnering with teammate Mustafa Inan in the men’s 10m pistol team event, Dikec faced off against the seasoned German duo of Christian Reitz and Paul Froehlich. In front of an enthusiastic crowd in Istanbul, the Turkish pair secured a decisive 2-0 victory, showcasing Dikec’s trademark coolness under pressure, which proved instrumental in their success.
What made Dikec’s performance stand out was his minimalist approach. While most shooters rely on advanced gear, Dikec stuck to basics with a plain pistol, spectacles, and a simple white T-shirt. Despite his laid-back appearance, each shot was executed with precision, emphasizing that simplicity can triumph in a field dominated by technology.
Expressing his pride in representing his country on home soil, Dikec commented, “Winning in Istanbul for the first time is a great honor.” This victory added another remarkable chapter to his late-career success, making him Turkiye’s oldest Olympic gold medallist at the European Champions League of Air Weapons.
Dikec initially gained global recognition at the Paris Olympics, where he secured Turkey’s first-ever Olympic shooting medal with a silver in the mixed team 10m air pistol event. However, it was his unique shooting style, characterized by his nonchalant stance of often keeping one hand in his pocket while firing, that resonated with fans and earned him the nickname “aura farming.”
The same relaxed demeanor was evident in Istanbul, sparking a flurry of reactions on social media. Fans humorously likened him to a secret agent rather than an athlete, lauding his ability to achieve exceptional results with minimal fanfare.