2024 has been a monumental year for surfing, showcasing thrilling competitions, record-breaking performances, and unforgettable moments. From the Olympic stage in Tahiti to the legendary waves of Nazaré, the surfing world has witnessed extraordinary feats that have captivated fans and athletes alike.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriel Medina’s iconic Olympic moment
- Laura Enever crowned Surfer of the Year
- John John Florence’s triumphant return
- Kelly Slater’s emotional farewell
- Legends Heat at Snapper Rocks
- Lucas Chianca’s massive waves at Nazaré
- Indonesia’s epic dry season
Gabriel Medina Goes Viral
The highlight of the year came from the Olympics held at Teahupo’o, where an image of Gabriel Medina became iconic. Captured by Jérôme Brouillet, the photo shows Medina suspended above the water, index finger raised in triumph, symbolizing not just his prowess but the spirit of the entire 2024 Olympics.
Laura Enever Named Surfer Of The Year
Laura Enever was honored as the 2024 Surfer of the Year at the SURFER Big Wave Challenge Awards in Nazaré, Portugal. Her dedication over the past decade culminated in remarkable performances at renowned surf spots like Oahu’s Outer Reefs and Teahupo’o. Enever expressed her passion for big wave surfing, emphasizing her desire to continue pushing boundaries in the sport.
John John Florence’s Layback
John John Florence made a stunning comeback, clinching his third World Title after a seven-year hiatus. During the WSL Finals, he executed a breathtaking layback turn that earned him a score of 9.17 points. His journey back to the top was marked by resilience and determination, showcasing his exceptional talent.
Kelly Slater Retires (Or Did He?)
The surfing community faced a bittersweet moment as Kelly Slater hinted at retirement. His last competitive heat at Cloudbreak ended in a loss, leading many to believe it was the end of an era. However, Slater left fans with a glimmer of hope, suggesting that he might not be done just yet.
Legends Heat At Snapper Rocks
The Snapper World Champs Heat at the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro brought together surfing legends like Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning, and Steph Gilmore. The event was a nostalgic celebration of surfing history, with the elite surfers showcasing their skills in perfect conditions, creating an unforgettable experience for fans.
Lucas Chianca Goes Massive At Nazaré
Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca made waves at Nazaré, tackling some of the biggest swells of the year. His fearless approach to surfing 100-foot waves demonstrated his readiness and passion for the sport. Chianca’s performance highlighted the extreme conditions that Nazaré is known for, solidifying his status as a top big wave surfer.
Indo Dry Season
The dry season in Indonesia from June to July saw an influx of top surfers flocking to the archipelago. With consistent 5-star swells, surfers enjoyed some of the best waves of the year. Notable performances included Barron Mamiya’s incredible barrel at Kandui, which stood out among many epic sessions during this period.
Sources
- Surfing’s Best Moments of 2024, SURFER Magazine.
