A young Japanese climber, Anraku Sorato, continued his exceptional performance at the 2025 sport climbing World Cup season with a remarkable victory in Curitiba, Brazil. The event marked the first-ever IFSC World Cup held in South America. Sorato, an Olympic silver medalist, excelled in both boulder and lead categories. His success was highlighted by topping two out of four boulders and securing a virtual win on the fourth one. Meanwhile, Mejdi Schalck from France claimed the silver medal, marking a significant comeback after a disappointing year. Narasaki Tomoa took the bronze, showcasing consistent performances across all challenges. This event sets the stage for future competitions, particularly as bouldering gains prominence as a standalone discipline in the upcoming LA28 Olympics.

The competition not only showcased individual brilliance but also demonstrated the growing popularity of climbing sports globally. Sorato’s achievements reflect a strong start to the season, following previous wins in China. Other notable climbers like Amagasa Sohta and Fujiwaki Yuji contributed to Japan's dominance, while international competitors such as Anze Peharc, Paul Jenft, and Jan-Luca Posch filled out the leaderboard. The women's competition is scheduled for the following day, featuring promising athletes like Oriane Bertone.

Star Performances Illuminate Climbing Scene

In Curitiba, Brazil, the spotlight shone brightly on Anraku Sorato, whose prowess in bouldering captivated audiences. With an impressive score of 69.7, he solidified his position as a formidable competitor. His ability to conquer multiple boulders and deliver an almost effortless performance on the final challenge left spectators awestruck. Sorato's journey continues a streak initiated earlier this year, where he achieved victories in other prestigious tournaments. This consistency underscores his potential as a leading figure in climbing sports.

Sorato's triumph wasn't singular; it was accompanied by commendable efforts from fellow athletes. Mejdi Schalck, representing France, secured the silver medal with a robust display of skill and determination. After enduring setbacks in qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Schalck reasserted himself on the global stage. Similarly, Narasaki Tomoa earned the bronze medal through steady progress throughout the competition. Each athlete brought unique strengths that enriched the event, making it a memorable spectacle for fans worldwide.

Rising Interest in Climbing Ahead of LA28

Beyond individual accolades, the Curitiba event signifies the increasing significance of climbing within the sporting world. As part of the IFSC World Cup series, it provided valuable exposure for emerging talents and seasoned professionals alike. The inclusion of bouldering as a standalone event in the forthcoming LA28 Olympics amplifies its appeal, drawing attention from diverse audiences. Such developments underscore the sport's evolution and its readiness to embrace broader recognition.

The women's segment, set to unfold the subsequent day, promises further excitement. Oriane Bertone, among others, has already demonstrated exceptional promise during preliminary stages. Her qualification in first place reflects the competitive spirit permeating the climbing community. Moreover, the presence of enthusiastic crowds in Brazil highlights local engagement and support for climbing events. Together, these elements paint a vivid picture of a sport poised for growth and transformation, with each competition contributing to its dynamic narrative.