​The energy at Snapper Rocks was absolutely electric for the 2026 final. A record-breaking crowd packed the foreshore, split right down the middle. Half the beach was screaming for hometown hero Stephanie Gilmore, while the other half rallied behind Luana Silva, the final hope for the Brazilian fans.
Gilmore had a slow start to the tour this year at Bells Beach and Margaret River, but returning to her home break brought out her best form. Right from the start of the final, she took control, winning the opening exchange with a solid 7.83.
The conditions kept both surfers on their toes. A bottoming out tide caused a bump in the swell, and changing sandbanks made the waves highly unpredictable. Still, the opportunities were out there. Silva capitalised with one of the longest rides of the event, staying on a single wave for over 50 seconds.
With 14 minutes left on the clock, Gilmore looked comfortable, picking off bigger waves and barrels. Silva then fought back hard, grabbing a few great rides to chase down a 6.51. She actually snatched the lead for a few fleeting seconds before Gilmore answered right back.
In the final minutes, the crowd grew so loud they completely drowned out the beach announcers. The eight-time champion put on an absolute masterclass. Her coaches corner went wild as Gilmore dropped a massive 9.5, leaving Silva searching for a monumental 17.33.
This win marks Gilmore’s seventh victory at Snapper Rocks, capping off an incredible timeline that started with her first win there back in 2005. Meanwhile, Silva is still having a massive year. After winning the GWM Aussie Treble and taking home the Tank 300, she heads into the next round wearing the yellow jersey as World Number 1.
Congratulations to the G.O.A.T Stephanie Gilmore on winning at Snapper Rocks
