The 2025 Manokwari Pro, a World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 2000 and Pro Junior event, is currently underway at Amban Beach in West Papua, Indonesia. The competition, running from November 26-30, has already delivered thrilling action, showcasing the region’s top surfing talent as they vie for crucial Challenger Series points and a spot in the upcoming WSL World Junior Championships.
Key Takeaways
- The event is crucial for Challenger Series qualification and the WSL World Junior Championships.
- Both men’s and women’s Pro Junior and QS divisions are seeing intense competition.
- Indonesian surfers are performing strongly, with several advancing to later rounds.
- Amban Beach is providing challenging yet rewarding conditions for the athletes.
Day Two Drama Unfolds
Day two of the Manokwari Pro witnessed a full slate of action, commencing with the Pro Junior men’s Round of 24 in pristine two-to-three-foot glassy waves under sunny skies. The day progressed to include the women’s QS Round of 12, men’s QS Round of 16, and the women’s Quarterfinals. The women’s Quarterfinals were particularly tight, with wave selection proving critical in the wind-affected conditions. Japan’s Anon Matsuoka advanced by strategically chasing waves, while Renon Matsuyama narrowly defeated Indonesia’s Dhea Novitasari. The women’s competition is guaranteed a new champion as defending event winner Kailani Johnson was eliminated by fellow Indonesian Jasmine Studer. Studer, focusing on her own performance, secured her win by catching slightly bigger waves on her backhand. The women’s QS Semifinals will feature an Indonesia-Japan showdown.
Men’s Quarterfinals Set
On the men’s side, all four QS Quarterfinals have been established, featuring a strong Indonesian presence alongside Japanese competitors. A highly anticipated matchup is set between Indonesian teammates I Made Ariyana and I Nyoman Artana. Artana delivered a standout performance, scoring a near-perfect 9.17 and the highest heat total of the day with 15.40, showcasing his powerful forehand attack.
Early Action and Aspirations
The opening day of the Manokwari Pro saw the completion of the men’s QS Rounds of 40 and 32. Ketut Agus, a runner-up from the previous year, demonstrated strong form, earning the highest single-wave score and heat total of the day. Defending champion I Made Ariyana also advanced, expressing confidence in the competitive field. Japanese surfer Ikko Watanabe, enjoying his first trip to Manokwari, showcased aerial maneuvers. Both Anon Matsuoka and Ikko Watanabe are aiming for strong results in both the QS and Pro Junior divisions to secure spots in the World Junior Championships.
Event Significance
This third edition of the Manokwari Pro holds significant importance, not only for crowning regional champions but also for its role in the 2026 Challenger Series qualification race. Local officials have expressed enthusiasm for hosting the event, highlighting Manokwari’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage as a backdrop for the competition. The WSL anticipates an incredible week of surfing as athletes battle for valuable points and prestigious titles.
Sources
- Close Battles and Standout Performances Define Day 2 of the 2025 Manokwari Pro, World Surf League.
- 2025 Manokwari Pro Underway With Exciting First Day of Action, World Surf League.
- Competitors Arrive in West Papua for 2025 Manokwari Pro, World Surf League.
