In a stunning turn of events at the 2025 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, South African surfer Jordy Smith has knocked reigning champion Italo Ferreira off the top of the rankings. This shift came after Ferreira’s unexpected defeat at the Margaret River Pro, where he faced off against Australian surfer Jacob Willcox.
Key Takeaways
- Jordy Smith claims the No. 1 spot in the WSL rankings with 32,215 points.
- Italo Ferreira drops to No. 2 with 31,290 points after a disappointing performance.
- Jacob Willcox’s victory over Ferreira marks a significant upset in the competition.
Ferreira’s Recent Struggles
Throughout the 2025 season, Italo Ferreira, a 31-year-old surf icon, had maintained his position at the top of the WSL rankings. However, his recent performances have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike. At the Margaret River Pro, Ferreira faced a tough challenge against Willcox, who scored an impressive 15.00, while Ferreira managed only 12.87, leading to his elimination from the event.
This defeat was not an isolated incident. Ferreira had previously struggled at the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro, where he was eliminated after scoring 8.00 against an opponent’s 11.33. These back-to-back losses have prompted a significant shake-up in the rankings.
Jordy Smith’s Rise to the Top
In contrast, Jordy Smith has been on a remarkable run this season. The South African surfer has showcased his skills and determination, culminating in a victory at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. His consistent performances have propelled him to the top of the rankings, where he now sits with a total of 32,215 points.
Smith’s rise has not only been about his victories but also about his ability to capitalize on Ferreira’s recent misfortunes. With Ferreira’s points dwindling, Smith has taken full advantage, positioning himself as a formidable contender for the championship.
The Competitive Landscape
The WSL Championship Tour is known for its fierce competition, and the recent events have only intensified the rivalry among the top surfers. With Smith now leading the rankings, Ferreira will need to regroup and refocus if he hopes to reclaim his title.
- Current WSL Rankings:
- Jordy Smith – 32,215 points
- Italo Ferreira – 31,290 points
- Yago Dora – (position dropped after Ferreira’s defeat)
As the tour progresses, the rankings are expected to continue shifting, with other surfers also vying for the top spots. Smith’s recent success has put him in a strong position, but the competition remains fierce, and every event could change the landscape of the rankings.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Italo Ferreira remains optimistic about his future in the sport. In a recent Instagram post, he reflected on the importance of growth through adversity, emphasizing his commitment to improving and focusing on upcoming competitions. As for Willcox, his victory over Ferreira has set the stage for an exciting continuation of the Margaret River Pro, where he will face João Chianca of Brazil in the next round.
The WSL Championship Tour is far from over, and with the stakes higher than ever, fans can expect thrilling performances and unexpected outcomes as the season unfolds.
Sources
- South African Surfer Knocks Italo Ferreira off Top WSL Tour Ranking, Sports Illustrated.
- Surf Icon Italo Ferreira Upset at Western Australia Margaret River Pro, Sports Illustrated.
