Pittar and Peterson Crowned Champions at Thrilling Western Australia Margaret River Pro

George Pittar and Lakey Peterson claim victory at the 2026 Western Australia Margaret River Pro, with Pittar securing his maiden CT win and Peterson her seventh.

Pittar and Peterson Crowned Champions at Thrilling Western Australia Margaret River Pro

The 2026 World Surf League Championship Tour reached its second stop with the Western Australia Margaret River Pro, culminating in victories for rookie George Pittar and veteran Lakey Peterson. Held at the iconic Main Break, the event saw challenging conditions give way to perfect waves for the finals, delivering a dramatic conclusion to the competition.

Key Takeaways

  • Rookie George Pittar secured his maiden CT victory, overcoming a stacked field of world champions.
  • Lakey Peterson claimed her seventh CT win and second at Margaret River.
  • Gabriel Medina reclaimed the World No. 1 ranking.
  • Luana Silva continued her impressive rise with a runner-up finish.

Pittar's Giant-Slaying Run

George Pittar, a 23-year-old from Sydney's Northern Beaches, completed a remarkable journey to his first elite tour victory. His path to the final included defeating multiple world champions, including Filipe Toledo, Yago Dora, Italo Ferreira, and ultimately, three-time world champion Gabriel Medina in a nail-biting final. Pittar's performance was highlighted by a near-perfect 9.00 wave in the final, showcasing his powerful rail game.

"I can’t even believe it," Pittar expressed after his win. "Those matchups I had, this comp, every one of them just felt like there was no way. And then to go out in the final against [Gabriel] Medina, who’s someone I’ve looked up to since I was a kid... I don’t have too many words."

Peterson's Veteran Triumph

Lakey Peterson secured her seventh career CT win and her second at Margaret River, adding to her 2019 victory at the venue. The experienced American surfer navigated through a challenging draw, defeating younger competitors before facing Luana Silva in the women's final. Peterson's strategic wave selection and powerful surfing ultimately secured her the win.

"I can’t believe it, really. It just kind of happened this week, it all fell into place," Peterson said. "I’ve been doing this a really long time, and it’s cool to prove to myself, like, I can still do this. I can still win these events."

Medina Reclaims World Number One

Gabriel Medina's return to the Championship Tour has been impactful, and his runner-up finish at Margaret River was enough to see him reclaim the World No. 1 ranking. This marks the first time he has held the yellow jersey since his last World Title victory in 2021.

Silva's Continued Ascent

Luana Silva continued to impress on the tour, reaching her third CT runner-up finish. The young Brazilian has demonstrated consistent strong performances throughout the season, solidifying her position as a major contender.

Event Context and Next Stop

The Western Australia Margaret River Pro served as the second event of the 2026 GWM Aussie Treble. The tour now heads to the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro Presented by GWM, the third and final event of the Australian leg, from May 1-11.

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