Mete Gazoz targets 2028 gold after thinking 2015 marked the end

National archer Mete Gazoz described 2015 as a difficult turning point in his sporting career at an event at Bezmialem Vakif University. Gazoz, who recalled the decisive moment behind his gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, said he is also targeting gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Scraper SystemOctober 28, 2026, 12:29 PM

Mete Gazoz targets 2028 gold after thinking 2015 marked the end

National archer Mete Gazoz met with students at an event at Bezmialem Vakif University, discussing key turning points in his career, the journey to the gold medal he won at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the story behind his iconic celebration.

Gazoz described 2015 as a challenging turning point in his sporting career, saying, "It was the year when I thought everything was over, but everything actually began." Gazoz said his mother had told him that he would succeed as long as he continued, adding that he did not quit the sport and charted a new path in 2016 after setting his goals.

The decisive moment in the Tokyo final

Gazoz also discussed the final in which he won the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, saying he saw his opponent score an 8 with the second arrow. The national archer said mathematical control of the match had shifted to him after that result, adding that he knew after the second arrow that he would shoot his final arrow for 10 points.

Mete Gazoz: 2015'te her şeyin bittiğini sandım, 2028'de altın hedefliyorum

"The most dangerous athlete is the athlete who has been left with no options, because they no longer fear losing," Gazoz said. Gazoz said he shoots every arrow to win, emphasizing the importance of knowing what the opponent has done and preparing accordingly.

Physical endurance and mathematics in archery

Gazoz said mathematics is as important as physical endurance in archery, adding that athletes must manage excitement and pressure. He stressed the importance of maintaining the same level of focus for about three hours while accepting the wind conditions, and noted that luck also plays a role in success.

The story behind his iconic celebration

Gazoz said the celebration associated with him began with a promise he made to his coach, Sermet Çınar, in 2013. Gazoz said Çınar told him to make the gesture when he became champion, adding that he remembered his promise after becoming champion in 2018 and performed the gesture.

Mete Gazoz said he is continuing his preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and that his goal at the event is also to win the gold medal.

Mete Gazoz targets 2028 gold after thinking 2015 marked the end