At 2.26 meters (7 ft 5 in) tall, former NBA player Pavel Podkolzin has officially become the tallest professional footballer in history after making his debut for Amkal Moscow in the Russian Cup. Remarkably, Podkolzin is a full 18 cm taller than the crossbar of a standard football goal.
The 40-year-old Russian, once considered one of the NBA’s rare “giants,” suffers from acromegaly, a hormonal condition linked to pituitary gland dysfunction, which contributed to his towering stature.
Podkolzin was selected 21st overall in the 2004 NBA Draft by the Utah Jazz before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks. His NBA career was brief, featuring just six games, during which he recorded 4 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 block. Nevertheless, his height cemented him as one of the 10 tallest players in NBA history, just 5 cm shorter than legendary big men Manute Bol and Gheorghe Mureșan.
After leaving the NBA in 2006, Podkolzin bounced between lower-tier basketball leagues before making a surprising transition to football. He was persuaded to join Amkal Moscow, a popular media-backed club, by its president — a former basketball teammate.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for me to try a completely different sport. I’m truly grateful,” Podkolzin said ahead of his debut.
In his first official match in the Russian Cup against FC Kaluga, Podkolzin was deployed as a striker. His massive frame immediately drew attention from fans and opponents alike. Although he didn’t score, he came close to making an impact: “They had a very good goalkeeper. I’ll try again in the next match,” he told reporters.
Amkal Moscow eventually secured a 1-0 victory, with Podkolzin’s debut adding an unforgettable highlight.
From hardwood courts to football fields, Podkolzin’s career shift has fascinated sports fans worldwide. At an age when most athletes retire, the Russian “giant” is still finding ways to compete and inspire.
Sources: Znews
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