World Title Contenders Arrive in Tahiti With Eyes on WSL Finals

Epic Teahupo'o barrels challenge the world's best surfers gunning for coveted WSL Finals positions. Wright, Picklum, Medina and Florence advance as the dramatic Championship Tour season peaks in Tahiti.
World Title Contenders Arrive in Tahiti With Eyes on WSL Finals

The penultimate stop on the 2023 World Surf League Championship Tour kicked off in epic fashion at the infamous Teahupo’o in Tahiti. With pumping four-to-five foot waves rolling through despite gusty winds, the women blitzed through Opening and Elimination Rounds while the men charged into their Opening Round.

Aussie surfers Molly Picklum and Tyler Wright secured Quarterfinal berths to cement spots inside the prestigious season-ending WSL Finals. After both suffered tough Opening Round losses, they showed true grit in the barrel to fight back.

“There are so many emotions out here in Tahiti,” Wright said. “I’ve had to accept that I’m scared but can still surf committed. Once I admitted that, I could move forward.” Her Round 2 win provisionally qualified her for the 2024 Paris Olympics – a massive achievement. “Thanks to my wife and team,” she said.

Picklum now meets rookie sensation Caitlin Simmers (USA) while Wright takes on Teahupo’o specialist Tatiana Weston-Webb (BRA) in the Quarters.

In a vital heat for Final 5 qualification, world #6 Lakey Peterson (USA) took on 7-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore (AUS). With both needing to overtake Simmers, Gilmore dug deep to prevail and keep her title hopes alive.

On the men’s side, 3-time world champ Gabriel Medina (BRA) sent a strong message to his rivals with the event’s second-highest total so far – an excellent 16.10. Currently ranked 6th, he requires at least a Quarterfinal result to break into the prestigious Final 5.

“I’m so happy to be back in Tahiti after 4 years away,” Medina said. “Teahupo’o is my favorite stop on Tour. I just want to get barreled and enjoy myself.”

Meanwhile, current world #7 John John Florence (HAW) dominated his Opening Round heat to progress. He too remains in Finals contention with a strong showing in the iconic Tahiti barrels over the coming days.

The scene is set for a massive back half of competition with the world’s best surfers ready to tackle the notorious Teahupo’o barrels in pursuit of Championship Tour glory.

Gold Coast Magazine

Gold Coast Magazine

Our in-house team and affiliates bringing you the latest in Culture, Lifestyle and Entertainment from around the globe and the great stories of the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast played host to a sensational Spilt Milk event, captivating music lovers with an array of unforgettable moments. The event's gallery showcases

The Gold Coast played host to a sensational Spilt Milk event, captivating music lovers with an array of unforgettable moments. The event’s gallery showcases

The iconic Kirra Beach Hotel, a cherished local landmark since 1956 has reopened with a fresh new look, ready for a summer full of great

The iconic Kirra Beach Hotel, a cherished local landmark since 1956 has reopened with a fresh new look, ready for a summer full of great people & good times.

Experience beachfront luxury with a chance to win a $12.6 million Gold Coast apartment complex just in time for Christma with RSL Art Union's monumental Draw 411!

Experience beachfront luxury with a chance to win a $12.6 million Gold Coast apartment complex just in time for Christma with RSL Art Union’s monumental Draw 411!

Bonza Airlines launches inaugural flights from Gold Coast Airport today, offering routes to Townsville and a lineup of exciting new destinations

Bonza Airlines launches inaugural flights from Gold Coast Airport today, offering routes to Townsville and a lineup of exciting new destinations

Bronte Langbroek, a Gold Coast native and well-known radio personality, is making her triumphant return to SEA FM's Breakfast studio

Bronte Langbroek, a Gold Coast native and well-known radio personality, is making her triumphant return to SEA FM’s Breakfast studio

Elevate your Melbourne trip with Pullman's Elevate Club Lounge. Find out how you can enjoy Champagne breakfast and more, even if you're not staying at

Elevate your Melbourne trip with Pullman’s Elevate Club Lounge. Find out how you can enjoy Champagne breakfast and more, even if you’re not staying at the hotel

We have compiled our list of 10 of the best burgers on the Gold Coast; these ten are the best burger joints in Queensland in

We have compiled our list of 10 of the best burgers on the Gold Coast; these ten are the best burger joints in Queensland in my opinion and sure to cure your biggest craving for delicious burgers

In a stellar achievement for the Queensland hospitality scene, The Calile Hotel has secured its place as the No.12 hotel in the world and earned

In a stellar achievement for the Queensland hospitality scene, The Calile Hotel has secured its place as the No.12 hotel in the world and earned the prestigious title of “The Best Hotel in Oceania

gcmag

Gold Coast Magazine

Sharing the People, Places & Stories that define our great city and showcasing the best places to eat, play and stay since 2007.