Yusuf Dikeç (born January 1, 1973) is a Turkish sport shooter specializing in pistol events. A retired non-commissioned officer from the Turkish Gendarmerie, he represents the Jandarma Gücü Sports Club. Dikeç gained widespread attention and became the subject of various internet memes due to his relaxed attire and minimal equipment at the 2024 Summer Olympics, where he earned a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event with his partner, Şevval İlayda Tarhan. On the official Olympic website, Dikeç shared his life philosophy: “Success doesn’t come with your hands in your pockets.
After completing his primary education in his hometown, he pursued secondary education in Göksun. In 1994, he enrolled at the Gendarmerie Military School in Ankara. Upon graduating, he was appointed as a corporal and began his service in Mardin. In 1999, Dikeç returned to the Gendarmerie Military School, graduating a year later as a sergeant and joining the Gendarmerie Special Public Security Command. He served in Istanbul for one year before being assigned to Jandarma Gücü, the sports club of the Turkish Gendarmerie, in Ankara.
In addition to his sporting achievements, Dikec has pursued further education. He holds a master’s degree in coaching from Selcuk University in Konya, Turkey. This academic background complements his practical experience in the sport.
Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec, who claimed a silver medal in the 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has gone viral for his “gearless” appearance. Numerous social media posts highlighted his relaxed, casual look, as he competed without protective earplugs or lenses. Addressing the attention, the Olympian explained that he considers himself a “natural shooter” and has never relied on special equipment.
The Turkish Olympic shooter’s impressive performance, executed with effortless ease, has resonated with audiences and cemented his place as an unexpected hero of the Paris 2024 Games.
