John John Florence Takes a Year-Long Break, Bettylou Sakura Johnson Aims for First 2026 Win
John John Florence announces a year-long break from the 2026 WSL Championship Tour to focus on family and travel, while Bettylou Sakura Johnson aims for her first win of the season.
The 2026 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) season is shaping up with significant news. Three-time World Champion John John Florence has announced an extended break from full-time competition to focus on family and global exploration, while Hawaiian surfer Bettylou Sakura Johnson is making strong waves and eyeing her first victory of the year.
Key Takeaways
- John John Florence is taking a year-long break from the WSL CT for 2026 to prioritize family and travel.
- Ramzi Boukhiam will take over Florence's wildcard spot on the tour.
- Bettylou Sakura Johnson is currently ranked 8th in the world and consistently finishing in the top 10, seeking her first win.
- The 2026 WSL CT season will feature an expanded women's field and a streamlined format.
Florence's Extended Hiatus
Three-time World Champion John John Florence has opted to defer his return to the WSL Championship Tour for another year. Florence, who was initially awarded the WSL Season Wildcard for 2026, has decided to withdraw to continue focusing on his family and extensive travel plans. He expressed gratitude to the WSL for their support and the wildcard opportunity, emphasizing that this is not retirement but a chosen path for now.
Florence had previously taken the 2025 season off to focus on opportunities outside of competition, including a sailing trip with his young family in the South Pacific. He plans to continue this journey in 2026 with the goal of circumnavigating the globe, aiming to become a better surfer, father, and adventurer.
Boukhiam Steps In
Following Florence's decision, Ramzi Boukhiam of Morocco has been awarded the WSL Season Wildcard. Boukhiam missed the final three events of the 2025 season due to a significant injury sustained at Bells Beach. He expressed his excitement to return to the CT and his gratitude for the opportunity, vowing to give his all.
Sakura Johnson's Pursuit of Victory
Meanwhile, Hawaiian surfer Bettylou Sakura Johnson is making a strong push in the 2026 season. Currently sitting 8th in the World Rankings, she has consistently placed within the Top-10 in every event so far, with her best result being a third-place finish. Sakura Johnson attributes her early success to a focus on mental relaxation and effective travel strategies during the demanding global tour.
She is preparing for the upcoming Surf City El Salvador Pro, the fifth event of the season, and is determined to maintain her momentum and secure her first win of 2026. She will be joined by fellow Hawaiians Carissa Moore and Gabriela Bryan in the women's competition.
2026 Season Outlook
The 2026 WSL CT season marks the 50th anniversary of the World Tour. It will feature an increased women's field and a streamlined format, removing non-elimination rounds across its 12-stop schedule, which runs from April to December. The tour kicks off in Australia at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach and concludes in Hawai'i with the revitalized Pipe Masters.