In a momentous announcement that is stirring the waters of the surfing world, Carissa Moore, the esteemed five-time World Champion, has declared her decision to step away from the rigours of competitive surfing. As she gears up to ride a different wave in her illustrious career, the global surfing community pauses to celebrate her outstanding achievements and ponder the impact of her departure from professional competition.
Hailing from the scenic South Shore of Oahu, 31-year-old Moore has chosen to grace the Lexus Pipe Pro Presented by YETI with her prowess before bidding adieu to the Championship Tour (CT). Her journey will then take her to the SHISEIDO Tahiti Pro as a wildcard entrant and onto the grand stage of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Post-Olympics, Moore plans to take a well-deserved respite from the competitive scene.
Jessi Miley-Dyer, WSL Chief of Sport, eloquently reflects on Moore’s journey: “Carissa is not just a champion but a paradigm of grace, resilience, and competitive brilliance. Her contributions have vaulted surfing into new realms of athleticism and progression.” The sentiment is clear: Moore’s absence will leave an indelible mark on the sport.
Since her CT debut in 2010, Moore has been a dominant force, consistently showcasing her exceptional talent. Her decision to explore life beyond the competitive jersey is a testament to her desire for growth and evolution. “I’m excited to see what else there is, outside the jersey,” Moore says, preferring the term ‘departure’ over ‘retirement’.
As a two-time runner-up and the defending champion at Pipeline, Moore’s participation in the Lexus Pipe Pro is a fitting tribute to her sensational career. Her Hawaiian roots and remarkable record, including five event wins, solidify her as a fan favourite and an icon of the sport.
Moore’s legacy also includes a groundbreaking achievement as the first Olympic Gold Medalist in surfing at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Her aspirations for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, coupled with her participation in the SHISEIDO Tahiti Pro, highlight her unwavering commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on Moore’s Career:
Carissa Moore’s 13-year career is a tapestry of triumphs, marked by five World Titles and the distinction of being surfing’s first Olympic Gold Medalist. With 28 event wins out of 120 CT appearances, her record is nothing short of phenomenal.
Moore’s CT journey began in 2010, immediately establishing her as a formidable competitor. Her rookie year culminated in a third-place finish, earning her the Rookie of the Year title. The following season, she clinched her first World Title at just 18, ushering in a new era of power surfing.
Beyond her competitive achievements, Moore embodies the Aloha spirit. Her creation of the Moore Aloha Foundation illustrates her dedication to inspiring young surfers and nurturing the next generation of talent. Moore’s impact on the sport extends far beyond her competitive accolades; she is a true trailblazer whose influence will resonate for years to come.
As the surfing community bids farewell to Carissa Moore, the competitor, there’s an air of anticipation for what lies ahead. Her departure from the CT is not an end but the beginning of a new chapter, one where her spirit and legacy continue to inspire and shape the world of surfing. Moore’s journey, marked by extraordinary achievements and a relentless pursuit of excellence, serves as a beacon for aspiring surfers and a reminder of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond the waves.
