The 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro concluded with thrilling performances from top surfers Gabriela Bryan and Jordy Smith, who both claimed victory in their respective finals at Punta Roca, La Libertad. Bryan’s win marks her second Championship Tour victory, while Smith celebrates a remarkable comeback after several years.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriela Bryan defeated Isabella Nichols with a score of 14.33 to 11.74.
- Jordy Smith won against Matthew McGillivray, scoring 14.26 to 9.33.
- Bryan moves to World No. 2 in the rankings, while Smith secures his place at No. 5.
- Both winners expressed gratitude for their support systems and the beautiful El Salvador waves.
Gabriela Bryan’s Journey to Victory
Gabriela Bryan, a 23-year-old from Kauai, showcased her talent throughout the competition. After a strong start, she faced off against Australian Isabella Nichols in the final. The match was intense, with Bryan initially scoring a 6.50, followed closely by Nichols with a 6.57.
However, a board buckle forced Bryan to switch equipment, allowing Nichols to take the lead temporarily. Bryan’s resilience shone through as she scored a 7.83 on her next wave, ultimately securing her victory.
Bryan’s performance at the Surf City El Salvador Pro follows her previous successes, including a win at the 2024 Margaret River Pro and a runner-up finish at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal. With this win, she aims for a top-five finish in the Championship Tour standings to contend for the world title.
Jordy Smith’s Remarkable Comeback
Jordy Smith, a seasoned competitor at 37 years old, demonstrated his enduring skill by clinching his seventh Championship Tour victory. Facing fellow South African Matthew McGillivray in the final, Smith started strong with a score of 7.33, maintaining his lead throughout the heat.
Smith’s journey to the final was not without challenges, as he initially scored a modest 12.87 in the opening round. However, he rebounded impressively, showcasing his powerful surfing style to secure a final score of 14.26.
This victory is particularly significant for Smith, marking his first Championship Tour win in nearly eight years. He expressed deep gratitude to his family and supporters, emphasizing the emotional weight of this achievement.
Final Results
| Event | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Women’s Final | Gabriela Bryan (HAW) | 14.33 |
| Isabella Nichols (AUS) | 11.74 | |
| Men’s Final | Jordy Smith (RSA) | 14.26 |
| Matthew McGillivray (RSA) | 9.33 |
Looking Ahead
The next stop on the World Surf League Championship Tour is the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, scheduled from April 18 to April 28, 2025. Both Bryan and Smith will look to build on their momentum as they compete against the world’s best surfers in this iconic event.
The Surf City El Salvador Pro not only highlighted the incredible talent of its competitors but also showcased the stunning waves of Punta Roca, solidifying its reputation as a premier surfing destination. With Bryan and Smith’s victories, the event will be remembered as a significant milestone in their careers and the ongoing saga of competitive surfing.
Sources
- Gabriela Bryan and Jordy Smith Win 2025 Surf City El Salvador Pro, CardBiz.ca.
- Results – Surf City El Salvador Pro 2025, World Surf League.
- Jordy Smith and Gabriela Bryan Clinch Finals at Surf City El Salvador Pro, Sports Illustrated.
- Kauai’s Gabriela Bryan wins Surf City El Salvador Pro, Spectrum News.
