Huntington Beach, California, witnessed a thrilling conclusion to the Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, as Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson emerged victorious. The iconic Surf City USA delivered classic conditions, with three-to-five foot waves providing a stage for exceptional performances throughout the final day of the World Surf League (WSL) Challenger Series event.
Key Takeaways
- Sawyer Lindblad secured her second US Open of Surfing title, solidifying her status as a dominant force.
- Levi Slawson achieved a significant career milestone with his maiden Challenger Series victory.
- Both champions hail from Southern California, marking a local sweep of the prestigious event.
- The event saw major shifts in the Challenger Series rankings, with new frontrunners emerging.
Lindblad’s Dominance Continues
Sawyer Lindblad, a 19-year-old from San Clemente, etched her name further into US Open of Surfing history by clinching her second title. Her victory came after a hard-fought final against 14-year-old phenom Tya Zebrowski. Lindblad showcased her powerful forehand and precise backhand, overcoming challenges from former Championship Tour (CT) surfers Sophie McCulloch and Brisa Hennessy en route to the final. This win adds to her impressive resume, which includes a 2023 US Open victory that propelled her onto the CT, where she earned Rookie of the Year honors. Lindblad, who has already secured her spot on the 2026 CT, expressed her gratitude and the personal significance of this redemption win after a challenging period.
Slawson’s Breakthrough Victory
Encinitas local Levi Slawson delivered a standout performance to claim his first Challenger Series win at the Lexus US Open of Surfing. Slawson navigated a challenging path, including an all-Southern California clash with Kade Matson and a victory over former US Open winner Hiroto Ohhara. His final heat against Brazil’s Mateus Herdy was a nail-biting affair, with Slawson ultimately triumphing. This momentous win propels Slawson to No. 4 in the rankings as he continues his quest for CT qualification. He described the victory as a dream come true, emphasizing the hard work and self-belief that led to this career-defining moment.
Next Generation Shines
The women’s final also highlighted the emergence of young talent, with 14-year-old Tya Zebrowski delivering a remarkable performance to reach the final. Zebrowski’s impressive run included a near-perfect 9.00 in the quarterfinals, and she now leads the Challenger Series rankings. On the men’s side, Mateus Herdy reaffirmed his status as a qualification threat, showcasing exceptional aerial maneuvers throughout the event and finishing as runner-up. Herdy’s consistent performances have positioned him at No. 2 in the rankings.
The Lexus US Open of Surfing marked the third stop on the 2025 WSL Challenger Series. The tour now heads to Portugal for the Ericeira Pro, scheduled from September 29 to October 5.
Sources
- Sawyer Lindblad, Levi Slawson stake their claim in US Open of Surfing history w/ Southern California Sweep I
805 Post Show Finals Day, World Surf League. - Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson Win Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, World Surf League.
- Sawyer Lindblad etches her name alongside surfing icons as a two-time US Open of Surfing victor |
World Surf League, World Surf League.
