Passion comes in many different forms. For world-class climber Jonathan Siegrist, it manifests in perfecting movement, holding texture and his obsessive drive toward the next big objective.
Follow along to a powerful soundtrack and dive into the intense moments of concentration, exertion and elation in Siegrist’s latest ode to the pursuit of rock climbing and trying hard: PASSION.
“Jonathan is undoubtedly a unique climber, one of a kind, and someone who has always inspired me deeply, especially after getting to know him on a more personal level.
I believe he is a person with a “dual soul,” who has found a balance between tradition and innovation. On one hand, he remains strongly connected to the core values of climbing: ethics, passion, and a profound respect for the history of the discipline. On the other hand, he seems to have an insatiable curiosity and a desire to explore new paths, even those that might seem trivial to others, demonstrating a unique connection with the rock and the environment.
The fact that he is drawn to things that might not attract other climbers "as strong as him" suggests that Jonathan sees climbing not just as a matter of technique or strength but as a deeper, more personal experience.
For me, it's inevitable that progress brings changes, even in people who are deeply rooted in their convictions. But when I think of Jonathan, I don’t see change in the strict sense; I see evolution. It's as if he has managed to adapt, grow, and improve without ever betraying the values that have always guided him. His growth has allowed him to integrate the new without abandoning the old, maintaining his essence as a climber.
When I look at the younger generations, I recognize that they bring with them different values, shaped by their experiences and their time. And while I find their fresh and innovative approach fascinating, I can’t help but notice a certain narrowness in their perspective. It seems to me that they often focus on technical aspects or performance, losing sight of that deep connection to the essence of climbing that, for me, is fundamental.
Jonathan, on the other hand, embodies a rare balance between respect for tradition and openness to change. He is an example of how one can evolve without ever losing sight of what truly matters. This is what makes him unique in my eyes.”
— Marco Zanone
