Türkiye more than made up for its early exit at the European Outdoor Championship with victory over world number one Mexico at Antalya 2026, stage three of the Hyundai Archery World Cup.
Only two weeks ago, Hazal Burun, Emine Rabia Oguz and Defne Cakmak were eliminated in the quarterfinals of the continental championships after losing to Estonia in Antalya. The defeat was particularly disappointing as the event was also held in Antalya, the home city of Türkiye’s leading compound archers.
This time, however, competing at the Gloria Sports Arena rather than the Centennial Centre, the Turkish trio responded emphatically on home soil.
Türkiye first defeated world number two USA in Wednesday’s semifinals before overcoming reigning World Archery Championships gold medallist Mexico 233-231 in Saturday’s gold medal match.
“I am very happy to leave Antalya with a medal again,” said Burun, who arrived this week as the newly crowned European Champion. “Winning a medal here at the World Cup as a team was great for us, and I am very pleased.”
“There are many differences between training and competition. Yes, we do repetitions in training as if it were a competition, but being able to shoot together here with everyone gives it a much stronger impact.”
“We’ve become a great team. We’re doing our best because we’re working hard and putting in a lot of effort. It’s wonderful to see the results of that work.”
The 2026 outdoor season has been relentless for the Turkish squad.
