Meet the Family Behind the World’s Tallest Teen: Olivier Rioux’s Remarkable Roots
Let’s dive headfirst into the fascinating world of Olivier Rioux, the towering teen redefining the limits of height and basketball prowess. Standing at a jaw-dropping 7’9”, Olivier has snagged the title of the world’s tallest male teenager as per the 2022 Guinness World Records. While he may be a giant on the court, at home he’s just one of the crew, nestled comfortably among his equally statuesque family. With a dad, Jean-François, at 6’8” and a mom, Anne Gariépy, gracing the 6’2” mark, Olivier’s genetic lottery ticket wasn’t just lucky; it was practically a sure win. Growing up in the Montreal suburb of Terrebonne, Olivier was no stranger to sports, picking up a basketball at the tender age of five. One can only imagine the bewilderment of his pint-sized peers as he towered over them, even then.
Now a freshman at the University of Florida, Olivier plays center for the Gators, currently gearing up for a crucial NCAA semifinal matchup against the Auburn Tigers. Even if he won’t be hitting the court this time around, his enthusiasm for his team’s journey to the Final Four is palpable. “It’s part of the dream for everybody in the sport,” he enthused to ESPN. With a family history steeped in athleticism—both parents were volleyball players, and his older brother Emile measures in at a solid 6’9” and shares his passion for basketball—Olivier’s towering achievements are hardly a solo endeavor.
Jean-François, now navigating the world of packaging at SupremeX Inc., fondly reminisces about Olivier’s growth spurt that could put Jack’s beanstalk to shame. In a candid television interview, he shared that Olivier’s height has become a daily conversation starter, noting that their family has simply embraced the curiosity of the public. “People are curious,” Olivier concurred, adding that the attention doesn’t bother him; it’s just part of the package—pun intended.
In a world where height can often lead to unwanted spectacle, Jean-François wisely advises onlookers to approach Olivier with respect and friendliness. The Rioux family is not just tall; they’re a delightful reminder that towering achievements come from solid foundations—both in genetics and nurturing environments. So next time you see a towering figure on the basketball court, remember: they probably came from a family that could practically reach the top shelf without a ladder.
Class dismissed. Try not to let this newfound wisdom go to waste.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and CTV News, ESPN, Guinness World Records, Associated Press
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
