The global coffee landscape recently witnessed a spectacular showcase of talent and dedication at the World of Coffee event held in Geneva. This gathering brought together the crème de la crème of the coffee world, as over 80 passionate professionals from diverse corners of the globe converged to vie for top honors in four distinct and highly esteemed championships. Each participant, having meticulously honed their craft over the past year, poured their heart and soul into their performances, making for a truly captivating and intense competition.
In a thrilling climax to the 2025 World Coffee Championships, held within the esteemed halls of the World of Coffee in Geneva, Switzerland, four exceptional individuals emerged triumphant, earning the coveted titles of global champions. From June 27th to 29th, the vibrant city of Geneva transformed into a focal point for the international coffee community, hosting the pinnacle of competitive coffee artistry. The prestigious event featured the World Latte Art Championship, where milk and espresso united in stunning visual harmony; the World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship, blending sophisticated mixology with coffee expertise; the World Cup Tasters Championship, a test of acute sensory discernment; and the World Cezve/Ibrik Championship, celebrating the ancient art of brewing. These competitions drew an impressive roster of over eighty dedicated coffee professionals, each representing their nation with pride and demonstrating their profound mastery accumulated through countless hours of rigorous practice and competitive spirit.
In a dazzling display of artistic precision and technical skill, Chen Zhuohao from China captivated the judges and audience alike, securing the coveted title of World Latte Art Champion. Ryusei Nozawa of Japan showcased remarkable talent, earning the commendable runner-up position. The top six finalists further included Elly (Jiyu Lee) from South Korea in third, JiaMin from Singapore in fourth, Bank Sarawut from Thailand in fifth, and Ming Wan from Australia in sixth, each demonstrating exceptional artistry.
The World Coffee in Good Spirits Championship saw Georgius Audrey Teja of Indonesia ascend to the top, dazzling with innovative coffee-infused beverages. Danny Wilson, representing Australia, secured the second position with his creative concoctions. Rounding out the top contenders were Van Lin from Taiwan in third, Christos Klouvatos from Greece in fourth, Vladyslav Demonenko from Germany in fifth, and Gary Au from Hong Kong in sixth, all showcasing remarkable synergy between coffee and spirits.
With an unparalleled palate and swift identification skills, Chatchalerm from Thailand was crowned the World Cup Tasters Champion, distinguishing subtle nuances with impressive accuracy. Max Mak from China demonstrated keen sensory abilities, earning the runner-up spot. The competition's final four also featured Huamin Chen from Canada in third place and Hiroaki Nitta from Japan in fourth, both recognized for their exceptional tasting prowess.
The ancient and intricate art of Cezve/Ibrik brewing was mastered by Charles Boyenval of France, who claimed the World Championship title with his expertly prepared coffee. Paul Ungureanu from Romania demonstrated his profound understanding and skill, earning the runner-up position. The top four concluded with Angel Kotsifakis from Greece in third place and Tala Bitar from Italy in fourth, each contributing to a magnificent display of traditional coffee preparation.
These championships serve as a powerful testament to the global passion for coffee and the relentless pursuit of excellence within the industry. Witnessing these skilled individuals perform and achieve such high accolades is not merely about recognizing winners; it's about celebrating the artistry, innovation, and unwavering dedication that drive the coffee world forward. For every aspiring barista, roaster, or coffee enthusiast, these events offer profound inspiration, showcasing the vast potential and diverse expressions of coffee mastery that continue to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide. The commitment displayed by these champions underscores a universal message: with passion and perseverance, the boundaries of possibility in the coffee universe are truly limitless.