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The GQ Türkiye Men of the Year 2024 ceremony, held at the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, recognized outstanding individuals from diverse sectors.
The theme of "breaking routines" defined the evening, which celebrated Turkish stars' achievements in sports, entertainment, fashion, gastronomy, and beyond.
Hosted by actor Sukru Ozyildiz, the night also featured red carpet interviews conducted by Ece Sukan. Thirteen awards were presented to those who stood out for their contributions and innovation.
Yusuf Dikec, who won a silver medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, was named "Athlete of the Year."
Dikec's calm and confident demeanor during competitions became a global sensation, with Elon Musk praising his poise and fans recreating his Olympic outfit at cosplay events.
In his speech, the Turkish star Dikec addressed the dedication behind his achievement. "Keep your dreams and goals big. Work hard and never step back," he said. Reflecting on his journey, Dikec added, "At 51, after 24 years of effort and five Olympics, I finally achieved my medal."
Actress Afra Saracoglu received the "Most Dazzling Achievement" award on her birthday. Saracoglu used her acceptance speech to honor women who face challenges without losing their optimism.
"I dedicate this to women who continue to laugh and work hard no matter what they face," she said. Thanking her mother, the Turkish star added, "You gave me the courage and strength to face this day."
The actress, known for her role in The Golden Boy (Yali Capkini), described the moment as one of the most special birthday gifts she had ever received.
Gokce Bahadir was awarded "Woman of the Year" for her influence in music, theater, and film. In her speech, she reflected on her early days in the industry. "I thank the 20-year-old Gokce who was scared but brave, who believed in herself despite the risks," she said.
Bahadir also addressed broader societal issues, expressing a desire for hope in a world affected by violence. "We live in challenging times where women, children, and animals face harm. We must remain hopeful and continue to strive for a better world," she stated.
Rising Turkish star Burak Berkay Akgul, who won the "Rising Star" award, spoke about fulfilling his childhood dreams. "Life isn't just about coincidences. It's about pursuing your dreams with determination," he said.
Musician Kalben drew attention with her masculine outfit and a drawn-on mustache, sparking conversations about challenging traditional beauty standards.
The ceremony reinforced the importance of perseverance, creativity, and the willingness to take risks. The honorees stood as examples of dedication and breaking barriers in their fields, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
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