Johnny Mathis, the legendary American singer, stood 5 feet 7 inches tall. Despite his modest height, Mathis was an exceptional athlete in his youth, particularly excelling as a high jumper.
A Renowned High Jumper
Before embarking on his illustrious music career, Mathis showcased remarkable athletic talent in the 1950s. His prowess in high jump was particularly noteworthy, setting records at both the high school and collegiate levels.
- High School Achievements: He set local high school records while attending Washington High.
- Collegiate Success: As a student at San Francisco State University, Mathis continued to shine in track and field. A memorable moment occurred at a 1955 conference meet in Reno, where he achieved an impressive leap of 6 feet 5½ inches.
- Defeating a Legend: In that same 1955 meet, Mathis famously beat his 7-foot-tall rival, Bill Russell, who would later become an NBA legend. This feat underscored his incredible vertical leap and athletic capability.
His athletic background provides an interesting contrast to his later career as a smooth, romantic vocalist.
Quick Facts: Johnny Mathis's Athletic Profile
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches |
| Sport | High Jump |
| High School | Washington High |
| University | San Francisco State University |
| Personal Best | Leaped 6 feet 5½ inches at a 1955 conference meet |
| Notable Rival | Bill Russell, a 7-foot-tall future NBA legend, whom Mathis defeated in a high jump competition in 1955 |
For more information about Johnny Mathis's life and career, you can visit his official website.
