The photo taken by Yusuf Dikeç with Furkan Bölükbaşı at the October 29 reception stirred up controversy.

National athlete Yusuf Dikeç, who made a mark at the Paris Olympics and gained worldwide fame, attended the October 29 reception held at the Presidential Complex. Dikeç posed for a photo with Furkan Bölükbaşı, known for his anti-Atatürk remarks, in that famous pose that has become associated with him.

"NEITHER OUR ATATÜRKISM NOR OUR PATRIOTISM REMAINS"

After the photo was shared on social media, Dikeç became the target of criticism. Responding to the criticisms directed at him on his X account, Dikeç stated; "During the Presidential reception I attended for the October 29 Republic Day, I took photos with many people. As you can guess, most of them were people I met for the first time. As you know, I am someone who does not use social media much.

Due to a photo taken with an unfamiliar person, which my close friends informed me about, neither our Atatürkism remains, nor our patriotism... Yusuf Dikeç, despite being 51 years old, is an athlete who fights to bring medals to his country six days a week and to wave our flag in international arenas. He is also a retired Turkish soldier.

"NOTHING CAN CHANGE MY LOVE FOR ATATÜRK"

During competition periods, I set aside social media and my phone to achieve good results. Therefore, I do not know the mentioned individual. My understanding of love for the homeland is measured by service to the homeland. Because, as Mustafa Kemal Atatürk said, the one who loves their homeland the most is the one who does their duty the best. Nothing can change my understanding of love for my homeland and Atatürk. Respectfully, Yusuf DİKEÇ"