In a groundbreaking study merging beauty and sports, Wilfried Zaha, the Côte d’Ivoire and Galatasaray winger who is on loan at French club Lyon, has been crowned the most handsome African athlete of 2024. The rankings, determined using the golden ratio, offer an intriguing take on the intersection of aesthetics and athleticism.
The most handsome African athlete study, conducted by analysts from Bettors.co.za, used the mathematical principles of the golden ratio to measure facial attractiveness. This ancient standard, often associated with classical art and architecture, evaluates facial symmetry and proportions to gauge beauty. With an average score of 8.02, Zaha claimed the top spot, beating a host of athletes from various sports across the continent.
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Trailing close behind the Ivorian are Nigerian footballer Odion Ighalo, with a score of 7.9, South African sprinter Akani Simbine, who scored 7.56, and Ighalo’s former Super Eagles teammate, Alex Iwobi, with a score of 7.51.
A Blend of Data and Design
To ensure accuracy, the researchers employed cutting-edge machine learning techniques, analysing three high-quality images per athlete. These images were meticulously selected from official archives, media outlets, and verified profiles, guaranteeing clarity and reliability.
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Using tools like OpenCV and MTCNN, the model assessed facial proportions, focusing on symmetry and alignment to calculate each athlete’s average golden ratio score. Only high-resolution images were included in the analysis, ensuring that the results reflected genuine facial features without distortion.
The methodology allowed for an impartial ranking system, highlighting the precision that technology can bring to subjective concepts like beauty.
Nigeria’s Pride in the Rankings
Nigerian sports enthusiasts will be pleased to see two of their own among the top contenders. Odion Ighalo, a veteran striker renowned for his clinical finishing, emerged as the second-most handsome athlete, while Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi secured fourth place with a score of 7.51.
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Ighalo’s placement on the most handsome African athlete list adds a touch of glamour to his storied football career, while Iwobi’s charm complements his on-field artistry. Both athletes underscore Nigeria’s dominance not just in sports but also in the aesthetics of the global arena.
The Full Rankings
The top 10 includes stars from various disciplines, showcasing the diversity of African talent. Notable mentions are Arsenal and Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey, Tanzanian striker Ally Samatta, and Senegalese wrestler Reug Reug. Here is the complete list:
- Wilfried Zaha (8.02) – Côte d’Ivoire
- Odion Ighalo (7.9) – Nigeria
- Akani Simbine (7.56) – South Africa
- Alex Iwobi (7.51) – Nigeria
- Ally Samatta (7.48) – Tanzania
- Thomas Partey (7.45) – Ghana
- Kalidou Koulibaly (7.38) – Senegal
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (7.37) – Gabon
- Cheick Sallah-Cisse (7.33) – Côte d’Ivoire
- Reug Reug (7.29) – Senegal
While this list celebrates physical attractiveness, it is essential to remember that these athletes are icons not just for their looks but for their contributions to their respective sports. Zaha, Ighalo, and Iwobi for instance, are celebrated for their electrifying performances on the pitch, while Simbine continues to break barriers in athletics.
