Kelly Slater, one of the most iconic figures in the world of surfing, has been kicked off the Championship Tour for the first time in 30 years. The news has shocked many surfing fans who have followed the G.O.A.T’s illustrious career over the last 34 years.
Slater went up against Aussie Liam O’Brien in a do-or-die position with the mid-year cut looming. In iconic fashion, it all came down to the wire, and it looked like he had once again willed the perfect last wave. However, he just fell short, which saw him eliminated from the rest of this year’s competition.
Slater, an 11-time world champion, has been a dominant force in the world of surfing for over thirty-two years. He has won a record-breaking 11 world titles and has been a role model for aspiring surfers all around the world. His style and technique have been the envy of many surfers, and his legacy in the sport is undeniable.
“I really felt like one of the heats where the magic was going to happen,” Slater said. “If you’re within 10 points, you got a shot if a wave comes. I felt good, I felt loose, and I didn’t feel stressed about the situation. I was really enjoying the day, it’s a beautiful day, and you know, we’re breathing.” Slater Said
When asked about his plans for his future, Slater stated, “All he is focusing on now is he wants to get barrelled and is super excited with the direction of surfing,” leaving us all wondering what his plans might be for the future.
The news of Kelly Slater’s relegation to the challenger series is a reminder that no one is invincible in the sport of surfing since the introduction of the mid-season cut.
It remains to be seen if Kelly will be on the Gold Coast in the coming weeks for the start of the challenger series at Snapper Rocks
