Yusuf Dikeç, who along with his teammate won a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, has received an award of 300 gold coins from the Turkish government, valued at around 5.6 million Turkish lira ($164,000), the TR724 news website reported.
Dikeç, who competed along with his teammate, Şevval İlayda Tarhan, became an internet sensation with his casual style, which was in stark contrast to the other competitors. He shot with one hand in his pocket and carried minimal equipment, while others used high-tech gear. Dikeç’s unique pose went viral online, sparking a series of memes that were even imitated by athletes such as Chelsea FC’s Nicolas Jackson.
Congratulations @ChelseaFC https://t.co/qBYI0jVDRV
— Yusuf Dikec (@yusufdikec) September 1, 2024
According to Turkish regulations, athletes who win silver medals receive 600 gold coins, which is equivalent to about $328,000, while gold medal winners receive 1,000 coins. Dikeç and Tarhan received 300 gold coins each due to their success at the Olympic Games.
トルコのおじさんあまりにかっこよくてスケッチしてしまった 描いてみるとあらためてわかるんですけど姿勢の美しさがすごいわ pic.twitter.com/DAjEvKowDV
— さかき (@sakakir) August 1, 2024
No Turkish athlete has won gold this year. Hong Kong leads the world in Olympic bonuses, offering significantly higher payouts: $747,000 for a gold medal, $373,500 for silver and $185,000 for bronze. Turkey also ranks top in the world for Olympic cash prizes.
The 51-year-old Dikeç, who has competed in five Olympic Games, is now trying to trademark his viral pose after discovering it had been attempted several times without his consent. His coach Erdinç Bilgili confirmed that a trademark application has been filed after other unauthorized applications were rejected. Despite the viral fame, Dikeç continues to focus on his sport and already has his sights set on the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.