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Türkiye’s national shooting team captured three gold medals at the European Champions League of Air Weapons in Istanbul, with veteran shooter Yusuf Dikec—who went viral globally at the Paris 2024 Olympics for his distinctive style—once again at the forefront of the country’s success.
Dikec partnered with Mustafa Inan in the men’s 10-meter air pistol team final to defeat Germany’s Christian Reitz and Paul Froehlich 2-0, securing gold for Türkiye.
After the final, Dikec expressed pride in both the victory and the opportunity to compete on home soil.
"The European Champions League is a special platform reserved for the best athletes," Dikec said.
"Representing my country in front of a home crowd, with the tournament held in Istanbul for the first time, is a great honor. Winning gold here makes me very happy, and it also serves as preparation for the World Championships in Cairo this November, where my goal is to bring back another medal."
Türkiye’s success extended to the women’s events. In the 10-meter air rifle team category, Damla Kose and Elif Berfin Altun defeated Norway to claim gold.
Esra Bozabali and Sevval Ilayda Tarhan also stood on the top step of the podium after beating France in the 10-meter air pistol team final.
With these victories, Türkiye claimed gold in all three team competitions.
Dikec became a familiar figure on the international stage after winning a silver medal in the mixed 10-meter air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
His distinctive style—relying purely on steady aim without additional support equipment—turned him into a viral sensation, with clips of his performance shared widely online, including by high-profile figures such as entrepreneur Elon Musk.
Reflecting on the attention, Dikec said his approach reflects discipline as much as technique.
"I have always believed in trusting my own balance and focus rather than depending on equipment," he explained. "It feels natural to me, and I am glad people all around the world could see that during the Olympics."
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