France's Avezou wins first World Climbing Series title in Keqiao

The World Climbing Series Keqiao 2026 concluded on May 3 at the Yangshan Climbing Center in Keqiao district, Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, following three days of competition in the bouldering discipline. A total of 142 athletes from more than 30 countries and regions competed for podium positions in both the men's and women's events.

France's Zelia Avezou secured the first World Climbing Series boulder gold medal of her career, delivering a composed performance amid strong expectations surrounding leading contenders.

With attention focused on double Olympic champion Janja Garnbret—who was pursuing her 50th gold—and her rivalry with world silver medalist Oriane Bertone, Avezou maintained a steady approach throughout the final.

"Honestly, I'm just wondering what has happened. I think I will fully realize later maybe," Avezou said after confirming her victory. Reflecting on her strategy, she added, "I just took it one boulder at a time. I thought the boulders were pretty easy apart from the first one, and the last would be really important."