The Cape Town Surf Pro QS 1,000 has concluded at the iconic Long Beach in Kommetjie, marking the thrilling finale of the WSL Africa 2024/2025 Qualifying Series. The event not only crowned regional champions but also determined the crucial qualifiers for the 2025 Challenger Series, the gateway to the elite Championship Tour.
Key Takeaways
- Adin Masencamp and Jessie van Niekerk emerged victorious at the Cape Town Surf Pro.
- Masencamp secured his win with a dominant performance against Luke Thompson, dedicating his victory to his mother.
- Van Niekerk clinched the final Challenger Series spot for the women after a tense final against Anastasia Venter.
- Louise Lepront and Luke Thompson were confirmed as the WSL Africa Regional Qualifying Series Champions for 2024/2025.
- The top qualifiers for the 2025 Challenger Series include Luke Thompson, Adin Masencamp, Connor Slijpen, Luke Slijpen, Louise Lepront, and Jessie van Niekerk.
Masencamp and Van Niekerk Crowned Champions
Adin Masencamp claimed a significant victory in the men’s final, overcoming top-ranked Luke Thompson in a rematch of their previous encounter. Masencamp delivered a powerful performance, scoring an impressive 8.83 for his backhand carves, ultimately winning with a total of 15.40. He dedicated his win to his mother, who is currently battling cancer, calling it a moment where "all the stars aligned."
In the women’s division, Jessie van Niekerk secured the final coveted spot on the 2025 Challenger Series by defeating Anastasia Venter in a closely contested final. The heat was intense, with wave selection proving to be the deciding factor. Van Niekerk’s experience on the Challenger Series ultimately guided her to victory, despite a shaky start.
Regional Champions and Challenger Series Qualifiers Confirmed
Louise Lepront and Luke Thompson were already assured of their titles as the WSL Africa Regional Qualifying Series Champions for 2024/2025 due to their consistent performances throughout the season. Lepront dominated several events, including the eThekwini Surf Pro and the SA Open of Surfing. Thompson also had a stellar season, winning three events and securing his spot on the Challenger Series for a third year.
The Cape Town Surf Pro finalized the list of surfers who will represent Africa on the 2025 Challenger Series. The top four men are Luke Thompson, Adin Masencamp, Connor Slijpen, and Luke Slijpen. The top two women are Louise Lepront and Jessie van Niekerk. These athletes will now prepare for the start of the Challenger Series, which kicks off in Newcastle, Australia, in June.
Sources
- Cape Town Surf Pro To Round Off WSL Africa 2024/2025 Qualifying Series, World Surf League.
- Jessie van Niekerk and Adin Masencamp Win Cape Town Surf Pro, World Surf League.
