On Sunday evening in Salt Lake City, American Natalia Grossman once again proved her dominance in sport climbing by winning her fifth consecutive boulder crown at the IFSC World Cup stop. Despite battling through a knee injury, Grossman managed to top three out of the four boulders to secure the victory in front of her friends and family in her hometown.
Grossman admitted that she had considered not competing in the final due to her injury and bigger plans for the year, but ultimately decided to push through and compete. Expressing her pride in her performance, Grossman mentioned how the Salt Lake City World Cup holds a special place in her heart due to the support from the crowd and having her family around. She attributed the motivation for her victory to knowing that there were a lot of tops in the competition.
Following Grossman, France’s Oriane Bertone and Naïlé Meignan claimed the two-three spots on the podium by also reaching the top of three boulders. Japan’s Anraku Sorato won the men’s category while American climbers Emma Hunt and Sam Watson secured titles in the women’s and men’s speed climbing events, respectively. The atmosphere in Salt Lake City was electric as climbers from around the world showcased their skills, and Grossman’s triumph was a testament to her determination and talent in the sport.