2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships: Angelina Melnikova earns first world vault title
Angelina Melnikova has earned her first world vault title at the 2025 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Competing under a neutral flag, the 25-year-old gymnast achieved a total of 14.466 points across two attempts, finishing ahead of Canada’s Leah Monica Fontaine, who scored 14.033, and the United States’ Jocelyn Roberson, who took bronze with 13.983.
The vault event marks Melnikova’s second gold medal of the competition, following her all-around victory on Wednesday. In that event, she accumulated 55.066 points across four apparatuses, outperforming US competitor Leanne Wong (54.966) and China’s Zhang Qingying (54.633).
After her all-around win, Melnikova told reporters she “did not expect to win” due to a fall on the balance beam, adding that “the medal belongs 100% to the coaches and medical staff.” The gymnast also spoke about ongoing injuries to her shoulder and legs, but said she was “trying to stay a good gymnast.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a congratulatory telegram, published on the Kremlin’s website, commending Melnikova for her “brilliant victory in Jakarta and the title of two-time world champion.” He praised her “talent, mastery, and strength of character,” expressing confidence that she will enjoy even more success.
This year’s tournament marks the return of Russian and Belarusian gymnasts to the global stage after a four-year absence, as the International Gymnastics Federation has allowed them to compete in a neutral capacity.
The 53rd Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, held at Indonesia Arena in Jakarta, marks the first time the event is being hosted by a Southeast Asian nation. The competition has brought together more than 400 athletes from 77 countries and runs until October 25.
