I could not match the perfection of Yusuf Dikec: Sarabjot Singh

NEW DELHI: Sarabjot Singh, an overnight star, became the first man shooter from India to win a medal in the mixed team event at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Nonetheless, he doesn't need to be introduced to those in the sports community.
It is interesting to note that since 2011, the 22-year-old sharpshooter from Dheen village in Haryana has looked up to the Turkish shooting legend Yusuf Dikec.Following his latest "gearless" medal shootout in Paris, Yusuf went viral. Sarabjot confessed to being a fan of Yusuf, saying he "could not match his perfection."
"I have been watching his (Yusuf's) videos since 2011. He has always been like this. He is 51 today. Even though I have tried, I could not match his perfection. If I had the chance, I would ask him what he eats?" said Sarabjot, as per IANS.
In a candid conversation, Sarabjot disclosed that his handgun bears the inscription SSINGH30, which consists of his initials and a pivotal date from his journey.
"I didn't give it a name," said Sarabjot when asked about whether he had assigned a moniker to the favoured tool of his trade - his shooting gun. He however added, "When I achieved my personal best at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, I got the weapon engraved with 'SSINGH30'. That is my best weapon. Because my medal (gold) came on September 30 and that was a significant achievement."
Contrary to common opinion, Sarabjot and Manu Bhaker did not train together much in the lead-up to the Olympic podium finish, despite the fact that they together won medals for the nation as a mixed team.
"My training was due at 9, hers was due at 12, individually. Mixed session lasted for 30 minutes, before which she trained separately, and I separately. Our conversation was usually brief and limited to 'Apna 100 per cent dena hai (we have to give our 100 per cent)'. Apart from that, we enjoyed some banter. Sometimes I would make fun of her, sometimes she would of me," revealed the Olympic bronze medal winner.
The accomplished Gen Z athlete also acknowledged that he faced his fair share of obstacles along the way. The Dheen kid found that meditation, particularly the unusual yogic practice of Trataka, helped him focus.
"The main technique is to look at the candle flame with eyes open for three minutes, and then imagine for two minutes. I used to keep it directly in front of my eyes. Complete darkness in the room, complete peace, silence. My eyes would water; it was not easy. The most important thing is visualisation in shooting," said Sarabjot, revealing that he started practising Trataka to inch back to recovery from injuries a year ago.
With nostalgia for his difficult time, he remembered the times he would get on a motorcycle and ride to Ambala for training. This interview will come as a surprise to the young Olympian's family.
"Woh struggle hi badaa pyara tha (That struggle itself was sweet)," he added. In his concluding thoughts, the Olympic medallist stated that his hunt is not over. He has set his target: " In LA 2028, iska colour change karna hai ( In LA 2028, I want to change its colour)," said Sarabjot, gesturing toward his glittering bronze medal, before signing off.