LONDON (AFP) – The world's new tallest man, measuring two metres 46.5 centimetres (eight feet one inch), said he was looking for love as he was presented by Guinness World Records in London.
Sultan Kosen, 26, blotted out the iconic Tower Bridge as he posed for photographs on the banks of the River Thames on Wednesday in his first ever trip outside his native Turkey.
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He takes over the title from China's Bao Xishun, who stands 'just' 2.36 metres (seven feet 8.95 inches).
The Turk also has the world's largest hands and largest feet, measuring 27.5 centimetres (10.8 inches) and 36.5 centimetres (14.4 inches) respectively.
And his giant hands dwarfed those proffered by amazed wellwishers as he turned heads in London, while reporters strained to get their microphones within reach of his head.
Kosen's record was unveiled to mark the launch of the Guinness World Records 2010 edition. The book, now in its 55th year, includes the world's biggest burger, made in the United States and weighing 185 pounds (84 kilograms), and records for the dog with the longest ears and the world's biggest skateboard.
Kosen was unable to complete his schooling because of his extreme height, but works occasionally as a farmer to support his family.
He said he hoped his newfound celebrity status would enable him "to travel and see the world and have a car that accommodates my size."
"My biggest dream though, is to get married and have children -- I'm looking for love," he said.
The extreme difficulty of squeezing into a regular-sized car is one of the main disadvantages of his height, but he says it comes in handy for replacing light bulbs and hanging curtains for his mother.
The tumour was successfully removed in surgery and he finally stopped growing last year. He uses walking sticks and tires quickly if he is standing.
I question the legitimacy of Kosen's crown because the title of tallest man had previously been stripped from Leonid Stanyik. Staynik, from the former USSR refused to be tested under new Guinness guidelines because he's a bit of a recluse. I personally just think Guinness wants a freak to parade around and Stanyik refused.
Sour grapes aside I hope Kosen finds a lucky lady to spend his days with. If I was him I'd go for about a 5-footer. She'd be the perfect height if you catch my drift. PS: Despite these giants of Eastern Europe and Asia, America is still the best ever in tall dudes. Robert Wadlow of Alton, Illinois was the tallest guy ever at 8'11''. USA!!!
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