John John Florence, the celebrated three-time World Surf League (WSL) champion, has officially announced his withdrawal from the 2025 WSL Championship Tour. This decision comes after a remarkable 2024 season, during which he reclaimed his title and welcomed a new chapter in his personal life. Florence aims to explore new waves and push his surfing creativity in the upcoming year.
Key Takeaways
- John John Florence will not compete in the 2025 WSL Championship Tour.
- He plans to focus on exploring new surfing locations and creative projects.
- Florence intends to return to competition in 2026 with a wild card entry.
- His decision follows a successful 2024 season, including a world title and participation in the Olympics.
A Resurgent Year
Florence’s decision to step back comes on the heels of a triumphant 2024 season, where he not only won the WSL Finals but also participated in the Paris Olympics. His achievements included:
- Winning the Surf City El Salvador Pro.
- Securing runner-up positions in three other events.
- Experiencing the birth of his son, Darwin.
This resurgence marked a significant comeback after a seven-year gap since his last world title, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.
The Decision to Step Away
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Florence expressed his desire to take a break from competitive surfing to recharge and explore. He stated:
"I’ve decided to focus on surfing in a different way this year. I want to create the time to explore, find new waves, and draw different lines."
This sabbatical reflects his commitment to personal growth and creativity in surfing, emphasizing the importance of adventure in his life.
Impact on the Surfing Community
Florence’s absence from the 2025 tour is significant, especially as he joins fellow champion Carissa Moore, who has also stepped back from competition to focus on family. The WSL has acknowledged the changing dynamics in the lives of its champions, with Commissioner Jessi Miley-Dyer stating:
"Recent years have seen changes in the lives of some of our iconic World Champions as they enter new seasons in their personal lives."
Florence’s decision opens up opportunities for emerging surfers, such as Ian Gentil, the 2023 WSL Rookie of the Year, who will now have a chance to compete at the highest level.
Looking Ahead
As the surfing world prepares for the 2025 season, the absence of Florence and Moore raises questions about the competitive landscape. However, both surfers have expressed intentions to return, with Florence already granted a wild card entry for the 2026 season.
The upcoming Lexus Pipe Pro, set to begin on January 27, will mark the start of the new season, but fans will undoubtedly miss the presence of these two iconic figures in the sport.
Florence’s journey into exploration and creativity promises to bring fresh perspectives to his surfing, and fans eagerly await his return to competition in 2026. The ocean remains vast, and with it, endless possibilities for adventure await.
