Alex Honnold Completes Free Solo Ascent of Taipei 101

American climber Alex Honnold successfully completed a free solo ascent of Taipei 101 in Taiwan on Sunday, scaling the 508-meter (1,667-foot) skyscraper without ropes or protective equipment. The climb, which took approximately 90 minutes, was broadcast live on Netflix.

Honnold began his ascent at 9:00 a.m. local time, using the building's horizontal metal beams and small L-shaped outcroppings as handholds and footholds. He paused at one point to face the crowd gathered below, who cheered him on as he progressed up the tower's facade.

The climb was originally scheduled for Saturday but was postponed by 24 hours due to rain. Honnold, known for his ropeless ascent of Yosemite's El Capitan, described the view from the top as incredible and noted the challenge of balancing in strong winds.

Taipei 101, completed in 2004, was the world's tallest building at the time. French climber Alain Robert scaled the building with ropes during its grand opening. Honnold's ascent marks the first ropeless climb of the skyscraper.

The event has sparked both excitement and ethical debate over broadcasting such high-risk endeavors live. Critics question the morality of televised risk, while supporters view Honnold's efforts as a form of artistic expression and a hallmark of climbing culture.