tallest teen canada

Olivier Rioux (Canada) is no stranger to towering over the competition. 

Standing 226.9 cm (7 ft and 5.33 in.) tall, 15-year-old Olivier has earned his place in the brand new Guinness World Records 2022 book after being confirmed as the world’s tallest teenager living (male)

Born weighing 7.5 pounds, Olivier grew to 16 pounds in his first month and did not stop there. His rapid growth led him to be 5 feet 2 inches tall in grade 5. 

Taking this, as well as his parents' height into consideration, doctors predicted he would be 6 feet 5 inches at his peak. Little did they know, he would exceed their expectations by an entire foot!  

tallest teenager sitting on a sofa

With the whole Rioux family being tall, Olivier’s childhood home was updated to accommodate everyone’s stature. Tabletops, and ceilings are all higher than average. 

The only thing that remains the same is the doorframes, which have seen their fair share of collisions with the top of Olivier’s head.  

As a child, Olivier spent hours looking through his Guinness World Records books, studying the tallest people, and comparing himself to every record holder. 

After failing to find someone taller than him in the 2015 and 2016 editions of the books, Olivier was inspired to achieve the title himself and recalls being "emotionally shocked and relieved that [he] finally got it!" 

It is no surprise that he gravitated towards basketball early on. 

The accomplished athlete remembers being as young as 5 years old, arriving at games, and having the opposing teams questioning his age because of his height.  

tallest teen standing with dog

In addition to the court, Olivier also attracts attention in other public settings.  

No matter where he is, people ask questions and often request photos next to him. 

During one family vacation in Cuba, a line of guests formed throughout the resort, all waiting their turn to take a photo next to him. 

Although this can make any simple outing into an ordeal, as long as people approach with respect and kindness, Olivier and his family are patient and understanding. 

Keep an eye out for Olivier, there is no doubt this teenager is destined to continue reaching new heights!

tallest teen with gwr 2022 book and gwr certificate

You can find Olivier's record in Guinness World Records 2022. Find your copy in shops and online, and get involved with #GWR2022