Sultan Kösen Kid
Is it possible to stand head and shoulders above the rest of the world, quite literally? For Sultan Ksen, a Turkish farmer, the answer is a resounding yes, as he currently holds the Guinness World Record for the tallest living male.
Born on December 10, 1982, in Mardin, Turkey, Sultan Ksen's extraordinary height of 251 cm (8 ft 2.82 in) is a testament to a life lived differently. His journey, marked by both remarkable achievements and unique challenges, offers a compelling story of resilience and self-acceptance. Ksen's story not only captures global attention but also provides valuable insights into what it means to navigate a life shaped by extraordinary circumstances.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sultan Ksen |
| Born | December 10, 1982, in Mardin, Turkey |
| Nationality | Turkish |
| Ethnicity | Kurdish |
| Height | 251 cm (8 ft 2.82 in) |
| Weight | Approximately 137 kg |
| Condition | Gigantism and Acromegaly (caused by a tumor affecting the pituitary gland) |
| Current Occupation | Farmer |
| Other Records Held | Largest hands on a living person (male) - 28.5 cm (11.22 in) |
| Former Records Held | Largest feet |
| Marital Status | Married to Merve Dibo |
| Known For | Tallest Living Man, Guinness World Record Holder |
| Reference | Guinness World Records Official Website |
Ksen's remarkable stature, which once led to childhood teasing, is a result of gigantism and acromegaly, conditions triggered by a tumor affecting his pituitary gland. This medical anomaly has resulted in an overproduction of growth hormone, continuing his growth even after the typical growth plates had closed. The condition's effects are not limited to height; his bones in his hands, feet, and face have also experienced abnormal growth.
The journey towards recognition and acceptance wasn't always easy for Ksen. In his early years, he often found himself isolated, hiding away in his small village in Turkey, and facing the challenges that came with being different. It was a long road before he was recognized by the Guinness World Records, and since his recognition he has embraced his identity with grace. For many years, the world's tallest person was Robert Pershing Wadlow, but Ksen's height surpassed that of Wadlow.
His hands, measuring an astounding 28.5 cm (11.22 inches) from wrist to the tip of the middle finger, also earned him a place in the record books. His feet were equally remarkable, with his left foot measuring 36.5 cm (1 ft 2 in) and his right foot 35.5 cm (1 ft 1.98 in). Ksen has become a symbol of human diversity and resilience. He is a testament to the fact that a positive attitude can often overcome many challenges. Through the story of Sultan Ksen, we learn how someone can not only embrace their uniqueness but also inspire others worldwide.
In 2009, he became the first man in over 20 years to be measured by Guinness World Records who was taller than 8 ft. A former farmer, Ksen was the first man over 8 ft (2.43 m) to be measured by Guinness World Records in over 20 years. On February 9, 2019, he was measured again by Guinness and was named as the tallest person in the world.
His visibility extends beyond his height; he has used his platform to connect with people, answering questions and sharing his experiences. He answered questions from the crowd and has shared his story on social media. He has also made public appearances at various events, including the Boys and Girls Club of the South Coast Area in San Clemente, where he interacted with children and shared his inspiring story.
Ksen's condition, while the cause of his extraordinary height, presents daily challenges. Due to the impact of the acromegaly, he relies on crutches to walk. Despite these difficulties, he lives life with determination and has been happily married. He is married to Merve Dibo.
Sultan Ksen's story is more than just about his height; it's a story of facing adversity and emerging with a positive outlook. He has showcased what it means to grow up different, demonstrating how one can embrace their uniqueness with grace and determination. He has inspired many people worldwide.
In a remarkable reunion, Ksen and Jyoti Amge, the world's shortest woman, who stands at just 62.8 cm (2 ft 0.7 in), were seen together. The two record holders have a significant height difference of 188.2 cm (more than 6 ft), and their friendship serves as a powerful example of acceptance and the beauty of diversity.
Ksen is more than just a record holder. He has shown the world how to confront unique challenges and live a full life, making him an inspiring figure globally.
