Every four years, the world eagerly tunes into the Olympics, and this year has been no exception. Unlike the World Cup or Six Nations, you don’t need to be an expert in the sports to enjoy the games. In fact, sometimes, the less you know, the more entertaining it can be.
This year, a newfound fascination with Olympic shooting has taken hold, largely due to two standout competitors.
First up is Kim Yeji, the 31-year-old South Korean pistol shooter who went viral for her distinctive outfit after winning a silver medal in the 10m air pistol competition. While her white cap, stylish Fila jacket, and slim tracksuit bottoms were striking, it was her daughter’s elephant doll attached to her hip that captured the internet’s attention.
Videos of Kim Yeji’s performance at the Baku World Cup further fueled the buzz. Her calm, precise shooting, combined with her graceful handling of the weapon, and her icy gaze at the score screen, has led to her being dubbed a “baddie” and “the goat.” Her demeanor has been described as both robotic and assassin-like, evoking comparisons to a futuristic hero in a Matrix-inspired outfit.
But Kim Yeji wasn’t the only shooting star. Yusuf Dikec, a 51-year-old competitor from Türkiye, also drew significant attention. Partnering with Sevval Ilayda Tarhan in the 10m air pistol mixed team event, Dikec and Tarhan won silver. Dikec’s nonchalant approach, shooting casually with his hand in his pocket and without the usual gear like noise-cancelling earmuffs or tinted lenses, contrasted sharply with Yeji’s finesse. His relaxed demeanor led to playful comments online, with some speculating whether his casual style was a unique professional choice.
Both Yeji and Dikec have brought a refreshing and intriguing energy to the sport. While their outfits might not directly impact their performance, they’ve certainly attracted attention. Yeji’s Fila jacket has inspired a quest among Redditors, while Dikec’s “normcore” look has been playfully labeled as the “final boss” of early 2010s fashion.
Though Dikec’s style might not become a trend, it wouldn’t be surprising if both their looks become popular Halloween costumes. The neo-futuristic jackets seen at the Air Rifle contest are likely to inspire street style enthusiasts soon.
This shift highlights how Olympic shooting, traditionally seen as a niche sport, has gained a new level of coolness this year. Even Elon Musk has weighed in, underscoring the unique appeal of these athletes. With Kim Yeji set to compete again this Sunday, it’s clear where my attention will be.
