sultan kosen split image with adjudicator and producer

How does one celebrate the anniversary of becoming the tallest person in the world? By showing off that superlative stature on TV, of course! 

Sultan Kösen, the world’s tallest man living and owner of the largest hands on a living person (male) jetted to Milan, Italy from his home in Türkiye to appear on the latest series of Lo Show dei Record

A star attraction everywhere he goes, Sultan proudly took centre stage to let the audience take in all 251 cm (8 ft 2.8 in) of him. 

Born on 10 December 1982, Sultan didn't begin his remarkable growth spurt until the age of 10.  

His extraordinary height and physique are attributed to a condition known as pituitary gigantism, which results in oversized hands, exceptionally thick bones, and painful joints.  

Despite facing challenges associated with his condition, Sultan has embraced his unique stature and has become a global sensation. 

sultan kosen with an adjudicator

It was 13 years ago, back in February 2009, when he first entered the record books. 

Sultan was measured in at 246.5 cm (8 ft 1 in) to be declared the tallest man living, bagging his hands record at the same time, with them measuring 27.5 cm (10.83 in) from the wrist to the tip of the middle finger. 

Then in February 2011, Sultan’s height and hands were measured again, extending his records with new measurements of 251 cm (8 ft 2.8 in) and 28.5 cm (11.22 in), respectively. 

sultan kosen holds up his hand

He also towers over the world’s tallest woman living, Rumeysa Gelgi (215.16 cm; 7 ft 0.7 in), making him the tallest person living

After a long day on set, he took a moment to indulge in a refreshing apple, describing it as "very good" - even though it looked way too small to hit the spot in comparison to his massive mitts. 

The occasion also provided him with the opportunity to interact with fans, taking pictures and sharing moments of joy with those who admire him. 

Sultan, despite his extreme height, has defied the odds by visiting over 120 countries. His travels, once deemed impossible due to his towering stature and humble background, showcase his adventurous spirit and determination to explore the world! 

From overcoming physical challenges to embracing his unique status, Sultan continues to captivate audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the record books and in the hearts of his fans. 

Missed Sultan's appearance on Lo Show dei Record? Viewers in Italy can watch it now on Mediaset Infinity. Lo Show dei Record airs Sundays on Canale 5. 

Sultan with a Lo Show dei Record producer

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