Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec recently gained viral fame after winning a silver medal in the 10m air pistol event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. His “gearless” appearance, competing without protective earplugs or lenses, drew significant attention, even surpassing the gold medalist’s recognition on social media. Recently, Dikec invited billionaire Elon Musk to visit Istanbul on X (formerly Twitter), and Musk’s response has since gone viral.
Yusuf Dikec’s Question to Elon Musk: Can Robots Win Olympic Medals?
Yusuf Dikec, the silver medalist Turkish shooter, posed a thought-provoking question to Elon Musk on X (formerly Twitter). He asked:
“Hi Elon, do you think future robots can win medals at the Olympics with their hands in their pockets?”
Hi Elon, do you think future robots can win medals at the Olympics with their hands in their pockets?😎🇹🇷 How about discussing this in Istanbul, the cultural capital that unites continents? @elonmusk pic.twitter.com/BR5iJmNOHD
— Yusuf Dikec (@yusufdikec) August 4, 2024
This query drew substantial online attention, showcasing Dikec’s interest in the future of robotics in sports. He also invited Musk to Istanbul, calling it “the cultural capital that unites continents,” to discuss the topic further. Dikec shared this invitation alongside a picture of himself from the Olympics, highlighting his distinctive style that had already captivated the public.
Elon Musk’s Response
Elon Musk responded with his trademark wit and enthusiasm. He commented:
“Robots will hit the center of the bullseye every time.”
Robots will hit the center of the bullseye every time
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 4, 2024
Acknowledging the advanced capabilities of robots, Musk added a humorous touch to the conversation. He also expressed interest in visiting Istanbul, stating:
“I do look forward to visiting Istanbul. It is one of the great cities of the world.”
I do look forward to visiting Istanbul. It is one of the great cities of the world.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 4, 2024
Netizens’ Reactions
The post has garnered over 8.9 million views and 145K likes. Many users reacted to the exchange between Dikec and Musk, engaging in the conversation through comments.
Yeah Elon, it is! You have a lot of fans in Turkiye!
— Figen (@TheFigen_) August 4, 2024
But the robots won’t have their hands in their pockets! pic.twitter.com/NC9p1VtXVJ
— 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 (@HamdiCelikbas) August 4, 2024
I would be surprised if the robots failed to hit the center of the bullseye every single time!! 😁@yusufdikec , u may want to challenge Tesla’s Optimus robot! @elonmusk maybe u can champion an Olympic event for robots vs humans. 😁
— Alvin Foo (@alvinfoo) August 4, 2024
AI and robots will soon rule the world 🤖
— Pjay the Gem Hunter (@PjayGemHunter) August 4, 2024
Yusuf Dikec: A Four-Time Olympian
Yusuf Dikec is an experienced shooter and four-time Olympian, having competed in the 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 Games. He began his shooting career in 2001 after serving as a non-commissioned officer in the Gendarmerie General Command. Known for his “rare technique” of shooting with both eyes open, Dikec credits his success to intense training and dedicates his achievements to Turkey.
What are your thoughts on the conversation between Yusuf Dikec and Elon Musk? Share your views in the comments below.
