Oriane Bertone Claims Gold at IFSC Boulder World Cup in Prague

In a remarkable showcase of athleticism and skill, France’s Oriane Bertone emerged victorious once again at the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) Boulder World Cup held in Prague, Czechia on June 8, 2025. Bertone secured her second gold medal of her career, both achieved in the same city, after an impressive semi-final performance that ultimately led to the cancellation of the women’s final due to adverse weather conditions. The Local Organising Committee, in collaboration with IFSC representatives, made the challenging decision to prioritize the safety of athletes and spectators by ending the competition early.

Bertone, who previously won gold in Prague during its debut on the World Cup circuit in 2023, solidified her status as a leading competitor in the sport. Her French teammate, Agathe Calliet, also celebrated her first World Cup medal, taking home silver after finishing second in the semi-finals. Japan’s Melody Sekikawa rounded out the podium by capturing bronze, marking her first medal at this level.

Despite not advancing to the final, Great Britain’s Emma Edwards and Spain’s Geila Macià Martín achieved personal bests by finishing within the top eight, with Edwards placing fifth and Macià Martín in eighth. The decision to cancel the final was met with understanding from the competitors, as safety remains paramount in high-stakes athletic events.

The IFSC Boulder World Cup continues with its next event in Bern, Switzerland, next week, where climbers will have another opportunity to compete in this prestigious series. The event in Prague has underscored the growing popularity and competitiveness of sport climbing on the international stage, particularly as it looks forward to its inclusion in upcoming Olympic events, including Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028.

For further updates on the World Cup series, fans and followers can visit the IFSC’s official website and its various social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

The implications of Bertone’s continued success not only enhance her personal accolades but also contribute significantly to the visibility of sport climbing as it prepares for future Olympic competitions. The dynamic performances witnessed thus far indicate a promising trajectory for the sport and its athletes, fostering growth and interest in climbing disciplines worldwide.