In a stunning turn of events at the 2024 Climbing World Cup, Wu Peng from the Chinese mainland emerged victorious, claiming the gold amidst fierce competition. This victory marks a significant milestone in Wu's climbing career, showcasing his exceptional talent on a global stage.
Samuel Watson, the American speed climbing sensation dubbed the \"fastest vertical man in the world,\" had been dominating the sport leading up to the finals. During the qualification phase, Watson broke the world record twice, setting high expectations for his performance in the highly anticipated final.
However, at the Foho Cultural and Sports Center in Wujiang, Jiangsu Province, Wu Peng captivated the fervent home crowd with his remarkable display of skill and determination. At just 21 years old, Wu first surpassed former world record holder Veddriq Leonardo of Indonesia in the semifinals, setting the stage for his gold-winning performance in the final.
Wu Peng’s unexpected triumph over Watson not only secured him the coveted gold medal but also sent a powerful message to the climbing community worldwide. His achievement underscores the rising talent and competitive spirit within the Chinese mainland's climbing scene.
Reference(s):
China's Wu beats world record holder to win Climbing World Cup gold
cgtn.com