Whoa! President Donald Trump meets 7-foot-9 Olivier Rioux A basketball player for the Florida Gators
On May 21, 2025, President Donald Trump welcomed the University of Florida’s men’s basketball team to the White House to celebrate their recent national championship victory. Among the team members was Olivier Rioux, a 7-foot-9 Canadian center who has garnered international attention for his extraordinary height. During the visit, President Trump was visibly astonished upon meeting Rioux, exclaiming, “Boy, what a big advantage, huh?” . The moment was captured in a video shared by White House communications advisor Margo Martin, showcasing the president’s genuine surprise and admiration for Rioux’s towering presence.
Olivier Rioux’s journey to becoming the tallest teenager in the world is both remarkable and inspiring. Born on February 2, 2006, in Terrebonne, Quebec, Rioux exhibited exceptional growth from a young age. By the time he was eight years old, he had already reached a height of 6-foot-1. His rapid growth continued, and by the start of seventh grade, he stood over seven feet tall. This extraordinary height placed him in the spotlight, and in 2021, Guinness World Records officially recognized him as the tallest teenager globally .
Despite his impressive stature, Rioux’s path to college basketball was not solely defined by his height. He began playing basketball at the age of five and quickly developed a passion for the game. His early years were spent playing for various Canadian AAU teams, and he later joined the French Phenoms at age 12, where he first gained significant attention. His basketball journey also included stints with Real Madrid and IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, before ultimately committing to the University of Florida. Notably, Rioux chose to walk on to the Florida Gators team, bypassing scholarship offers from other programs, because of the university’s academic reputation and the development plan set forth by the coaching staff .
At Florida, Rioux is considered a long-term project. He redshirted the 2024-25 season, meaning he did not participate in any games, allowing him to retain a year of eligibility. This decision was made to focus on his physical development, including improving his strength, agility, and overall conditioning. The coaching staff, led by head coach Todd Golden, has emphasized the importance of getting Rioux into the best shape of his life, as this will be crucial for his success on the court .
Off the court, Rioux’s presence is equally commanding. Standing at 7-foot-9, he is often the center of attention wherever he goes. His height has made him a campus celebrity, with fans frequently stopping him for photos and autographs. Despite the constant attention, Rioux remains grounded and approachable, often engaging with fans and embracing the unique experiences that come with his extraordinary height .
Looking ahead, the future appears promising for Olivier Rioux. While he continues to develop his skills and physical conditioning, his potential on the basketball court is undeniable. If he continues on his current trajectory, Rioux could become a significant presence in college basketball and potentially beyond. His story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s passions, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
