​The wait is officially over. The 2026 Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented by GWM has been called on today at Snapper Rocks, marking the return of elite Championship Tour heats to the iconic break for the first time since 2018. With a pristine sand banknd an incredible forecast, organisers are ready for a massive opening day of action.
All eyes are locked on the Round One matchups as the world’s best surfers hit the water. In the Women’s draw, local hero and eight-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore is looking to turn her season around in Heat 7. After two years away from the tour, she currently sits at Number 23 in the rankings and faces a tough opening battle against Erin Brooks, the surfer who knocked her out of the event last year. Despite the pressure, Gilmore is keeping things in perspective. “But at this point, everything’s a cherry on top and I’m just trying to make a heat” she shared.
The Women’s Round One is stacked with heavy hitters, featuring Sally Fitzgibbons taking on Bella Kenworthy in Heat 2, and Tyler Wright facing Anat Lelior in Heat 6. Fans will also see Carissa Moore battle Tya Zebrowski in Heat 4.
On the Men’s side, the opening action promises to be just as fierce. Heat 1 sees Callum Robson matching up against Oscar Berry, while later in Heat 4, Morgan Cibilic takes on Ramzi Boukhiam.
With the Gold Coast Open officially called ON for 8:30am , Snapper Rocks is primed to deliver. Get ready for an epic day of surfing.
Men’s Round One is now in the water with women’s Round One to follow. Men’s Round Two Heats 1 and 2 are on standby. As expected, Snapper Rocks is delivering super clean waves in the three-to-four foot range, which will make for an incredible start to the competition.
​Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented by GWM Men’s Round One Matchups
HEAT 1: Callum Robson (AUS) vs. Oscar Berry (AUS)
HEAT 2: Mateus Herdy (BRA) vs. Reef Heazlewood (AUS)
HEAT 3: Luke Thompson (RSA) vs. Winter Vincent (AUS)
HEAT 4: Morgan Cibilic (AUS) vs. Ramzi Boukhiam (MAR)
Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented by GWM Women’s Round One Matchups
HEAT 1: Francisca Veselko (POR) vs. Yolanda Hopkins (POR)
HEAT 2: Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS) vs. Bella Kenworthy (USA)
HEAT 3: Vahine Fierro (FRA) vs. Brisa Hennessy (CRC)
HEAT 4: Carissa Moore (HAW) vs. Tya Zebrowski (FRA)
HEAT 5: Alyssa Spencer (USA) vs. Nadia Erostarbe (ESP)
HEAT 6: Tyler Wright (AUS) vs. Anat Lelior (ISR)
HEAT 7: Erin Brooks (CAN) vs. Stephanie Gilmore (AUS)
HEAT 8: Sawyer Lindblad (USA) vs. Dimity Stoyle (AUS)
