The climb took 91 minutes and was broadcast live by Netflix, turning the event into a global spectacle. As Honnold moved steadily upward, thousands of people gathered below, cheering, waving, and holding their breath.

The mood on the ground was electric. Every step felt like a shared moment between the climber and the crowd.

Reaching the top, Honnold looked out over the city and said simply, ‘Wow, what a view.’ Later, he told reporters the experience was thrilling and peaceful at the same time. Seeing the city from above, he said, felt ‘beautiful and unreal.’

The climb had been delayed by a day due to bad weather, a reminder that nature still sets the rules no matter how bold the plan. Honnold also revealed that he once considered climbing the tower without permission, but chose not to. Out of respect for the building and the people connected to it, he waited for official approval.

The Taipei 101 management and city authorities fully supported the climb, providing access and cooperation. According to Netflix executive producer James Smith, it is rare for a landmark building to place such trust in a single climber. He noted that Taipei 101 is more than a structure, it is a national symbol and the event captured global attention.

Taiwanese politicians also praised the moment on social media. President Lai Ching te said the climb showed the world not only Taipei 101, but also Taiwan’s warmth, spirit, and natural beauty.

This was not the first ascent of the tower. In 2004, French climber Alain Robert climbed Taipei 101 using safety ropes, taking four hours to complete the challenge. Honnold’s rope-free climb, however, set a new and daring benchmark.

For many viewers, the event was more than a stunt. It was a lesson in trust, focus, and respect and a reminder that some risks, when taken with care, can bring the world together.