Striker Wilfried Zaha. Striker Wilfried Zaha.
Image: .
They score like machines and race like a bullet train, but have you ever wondered who is the most handsome?
You don't have to answer, we stan, but we will help you...
Bettors has unveiled the official rankings for the Most Handsome African Athletes of 2024, using the golden ratio as a scientific standard to evaluate facial attractiveness.
The golden ratio is a mathematical formula widely recognised for defining naturally pleasing proportions.
It assesses symmetry and balance by analysing the distances between key facial features, offering a reliable measure of aesthetic appeal. This approach provides a data-driven perspective on beauty, perfect for evaluating these top athletes.
The study by Bettors relied on high-quality, verified images of athletes from various sports. Each athlete was evaluated using three carefully selected photos sourced from:
This ensured an accurate representation of each contender’s facial symmetry and overall appeal.
Wilfried Zaha
FILE - Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha ahead of their Premier League game against Manchester United.
Image: Shaun Botterill/Reuters
The Galatasaray winger and former Crystal Palace star tops the list, earning the title of the most attractive African male athlete of 2024. His symmetrical facial features and natural charisma captivated the judges.
Odion Ighalo
Odion Ighalo’s temporary move from Shanghai Shenhua is set to end a month earlier than most loan deals. Photo: PA Wire Odion Ighalo
Image: PA Wire
The Nigerian footballer secured second place, impressing with his sharp features and balanced proportions.
Akani Simbine
FILE - South Africa's Akani Simbine celebrates after winning the men's 100m during A IAAF Diamond League athletics meeting in Suzhou in April. Simbine could earn more than R1 million with a gold medal at the Paris Olympics. South Africa's Akani Simbine celebrates after winning the men's 100m during A IAAF Diamond League athletics meeting in Suzhou in April.
Image: Hector Retamal / AFP
South Africa’s sprinting sensation ranks third, celebrated for his athletic prowess and striking facial structure.
| Athlete | Average Beauty Score | Country |
| Wilfried Zaha | 8.02 | Côte d'Ivoire |
| Odion Ighalo | 7.9 | Nigeria |
| Akani Simbine | 7.56 | South Africa |
| Alex Iwobi | 7.51 | Nigeria |
| 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 the golden ratio provides an interesting mathematical lens for evaluating facial features, it is best understood as one of many tools for appreciating beauty rather than a definitive standard.
kim.kay@iol.co.za
IOL
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