Colapinto’s Portugal Masterclass Headlines Dramatic Supertubos Finals

Griffin Colapinto claimed a third MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal victory at Supertubos, overcoming three-time world champion Gabriel Medina in a powerful men’s final. The event’s finals day also brought a breakthrough-season win for Australia’s Molly Picklum, who beat Caitlin Simmers. Heavy barrels and a packed shoreline made for a standout Championship Tour stop.

Colapinto's third Portugal crown

The men’s final brought Colapinto and Medina into a close contest in the heavy surf. Medina built an early advantage, then added scores of 8.57 and 8.20 to put pressure on the American. Colapinto answered with an 8.17 before finding a deep barrel late in the heat. His ride earned a 9.43, giving him the winning total and a third title at the Portugal event.

Afterward, Colapinto described the matchup as an extraordinary battle and said Portugal held a special place for him. He also credited the influence of his brother Crosby, whose recent Challenger Series win in Portugal had inspired him to refocus. The victory added another high point to Colapinto’s record at Supertubos, a break often likened to Hawaii’s Pipeline for its powerful barrels.

Picklum back on top

In the women’s final, Australian Molly Picklum defeated fellow finalist Caitlin Simmers to earn her first win of the season. Picklum, the reigning world champion, had another reason to celebrate after a difficult stretch without a tour victory. Simmers, the 2024 world champion, finished runner-up and spoke about the personal importance of finding enjoyment in competition.

The finals gave the event two distinct storylines: Colapinto’s established success in Portugal and Picklum’s return to the winner’s circle. Simmers also left with a strong result in demanding conditions, as the finalists faced powerful waves and an enthusiastic beach crowd.

Next stop: Philippines Pro

The Portugal contest was the 10th stop on the Championship Tour. The next scheduled event, the Philippines Pro, was due to run from October 31 to November 10, extending the season’s title race. Colapinto’s result and Picklum’s win added momentum and new talking points as surfers headed into the next stop.