Crosby Colapinto, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, has suffered a significant injury while practicing at Backdoor, just days before the start of the 2025 WSL Championship Tour. The incident occurred when he fell into the reef, resulting in a broken elbow that will require surgery and likely keep him sidelined for the early part of the season.
Key Takeaways
- Crosby Colapinto injured his elbow at Backdoor while preparing for the 2025 Pipe Pro.
- The injury occurred when he fell into the reef after attempting a challenging wave.
- Colapinto is scheduled for surgery and may miss several early events of the season.
Injury Details
Crosby was enjoying a productive session at Backdoor when he attempted to ride a particularly challenging wave. Unfortunately, he misjudged the landing and fell directly onto the reef, resulting in a broken elbow. He described the moment, saying, "I jumped forward off my board after the back spit because I was too deep, fell into the vortex of the lip. The lip ended up going straight to the bottom breaking the flat water, I didn’t touch any water and straight elbow to reef."
Recovery Timeline
Colapinto is optimistic about his recovery, stating that he will undergo surgery soon. Here’s what we know about his expected recovery:
- Surgery Date: Scheduled for Wednesday.
- Recovery Duration: Estimated at 6-8 weeks.
- Potential Return: Aiming to be back in time for the Portugal event.
Impact on the Championship Tour
Crosby’s injury comes at a critical time, as the 2025 WSL Championship Tour is set to begin shortly. His absence will not only affect his personal season but also the competitive landscape of the tour. He joins fellow competitor Gabriel Medina on the injured list, raising questions about who will fill their spots in the upcoming events.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Colapinto remains positive about his recovery and future in the sport. He expressed gratitude that the injury was not more severe, stating, "So grateful that it was my elbow and not something way worse. What really hurts the most is the timing of it all with the start of the year just a couple weeks away. But I am excited for this challenge that stands in front of me at this moment."
As the surfing community rallies around him, fans and fellow competitors alike are wishing Crosby a swift recovery. His determination and resilience will be crucial as he navigates this challenging period in his career.