Three days after the thrilling conclusion of the WSL 2024 World Junior Championships Presented by TPB Philippines, the surfing world is still buzzing over the historic victories of Luana Silva (BRA) and Bronson Meydi (INA). The duo rose to the occasion against the world’s best under-20 surfers at Monaliza Point, Urbiztondo Beach, where clean three-to-four-foot waves provided the perfect stage for their career-defining wins.
Bronson Meydi Becomes Indonesia’s First WSL World Champion
On January 18, Indonesian surfer Bronson Meydi made history by becoming the first-ever Indonesian to win a WSL World Title, claiming victory in an epic Final against Australia’s Winter Vincent (AUS). This groundbreaking achievement not only marks a major milestone for Indonesian surfing but also secures Meydi’s place in the 2025 Challenger Series, where he will compete for a spot on the elite Championship Tour.
“This feels so amazing, and I’m still a bit in shock,” said Meydi. “To do this for Indonesia feels so special. I’m super proud to bring this trophy home.”
The Final featured standout performances from both surfers, with Vincent posting a two-wave total of 17.84 (out of 20)through a powerful and progressive display. However, Meydi stole the show with a perfect 10-point ride, landing two massive full-rotation air-reverses, followed by another strong score to achieve an event-high total of 18.80, clinching the historic win.
“I knew I would have to go big against Winter,” Meydi added. “He has been the guy to beat all week, and his surfing is amazing. I want to congratulate him on making the Final and having such a great performance here.”
Luana Silva Claims First Brazilian Women’s World Junior Title
Brazil’s Luana Silva also made history on January 18 by becoming the first Brazilian woman to claim the WSL World Junior Title. She emerged victorious in a tightly contested Final against Japan’s Kana Nakashio (JPN), adding another accolade to her impressive career, which includes representing Brazil at the 2024 Olympic Games and competing on the Championship Tour.
“This feels so good,” Silva said. “I have no words for this. I’ve been going through a bit of a rough time, I recently lost a good childhood friend of mine. I think she sent me that last wave, and this one is definitely for her.”
The Final saw Nakashio hold the lead for most of the heat, with Silva struggling to find her rhythm. However, in the closing moments, Silva capitalised on a critical wave, performing two vertical re-entries to secure a winning two-wave total of 12.23 (out of 20).
“I grinded through all of my heats,” Silva reflected. “I never really found a great wave and surfed scrappy heats, but I guess I did a good enough job in each heat to get through and get the job done. I’m just so happy right now.”
Looking Ahead
Silva and Meydi’s victories have not only etched their names in surfing history but also set them up for exciting opportunities ahead. Their wins guarantee them spots in the 2025 Challenger Series, where they will face the world’s best up-and-coming surfers in their pursuit of Championship Tour qualification.
The 2024 WSL World Junior Championships have once again highlighted the incredible depth of junior surfing talent, with the scenic Monaliza Point providing the perfect backdrop for the prestigious event.
Final Results
Men’s Division:
- Winner: Bronson Meydi (INA) – 18.80
- Runner-up: Winter Vincent (AUS) – 17.84
Women’s Division:
- Winner: Luana Silva (BRA) – 12.23
- Runner-up: Kana Nakashio (JPN)
About the WSL World Junior Championships
The WSL World Junior Championships is the premier competition for the world’s top under-20 surfers, showcasing the next generation of talent. The 2024 event, presented by TPB Philippines, was held at Monaliza Point in Urbiztondo Beach, a world-class surf break known for its clean, consistent waves and stunning coastal scenery.