In a thrilling conclusion at Huntington Beach, Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson delivered a memorable Southern California sweep at the 2025 Lexus US Open of Surfing. Their victories crowned a week of intense competition and standout performances, cementing their status among surfing’s brightest talents.
Key Takeaways
- Sawyer Lindblad claims her second US Open of Surfing crown, joining an elite group of two-time champions.
- Levi Slawson earns his first-ever Challenger Series title in a dramatic men’s final.
- 14-year-old Tya Zebrowski surges to No. 1 in the Challenger Series rankings after a runner-up finish.
- Mateus Herdy reaffirms his credentials as a top Championship Tour qualifier with a strong performance.
- The event featured live music, family activities, and set the stage for the Challenger Series stop in Portugal.
Lindblad’s Repeat Victory Sparks Redemption
Sawyer Lindblad, at just 19, made her mark once again by clinching her second US Open title. Facing off against 14-year-old French phenom Tya Zebrowski in a tense women’s final, Lindblad showcased improved maturity and strategic prowess. After trailing in the early minutes, she mounted a comeback with her signature forehand and backhand combinations, narrowly edging out Zebrowski. Lindblad’s win not only solidifies her reputation but boosts her as a leader ahead of the 2026 Championship Tour season.
Levi Slawson Breaks Through in Men’s Event
Levi Slawson emerged victorious in a gripping men’s final against Brazil’s Mateus Herdy. Slawson’s dynamic aerial maneuvers and composure under pressure highlighted his journey from local standout to international competitor. Securing his maiden Challenger Series win, Slawson’s performance catapults him to No. 4 in the rankings, fueling his campaign for a Championship Tour berth.
Youth Movement: Zebrowski and Herdy Headline The Next Wave
Tya Zebrowski’s impressive run to the final, marked by a near-perfect 9.00 score in the quarterfinals, now puts her atop the Challenger Series leaderboard. The French teenager is poised for a breakthrough season and has her sights set on tour qualification.
On the men’s side, Mateus Herdy once again proved himself a perennial contender, dazzling with high-flying airs and consistent heat victories. Despite a narrow loss in the final, Herdy moves to No. 2 in the rankings and maintains momentum heading into the next round in Portugal.
Community Celebration and What’s Next
The US Open of Surfing continues to be more than just a sports showcase, delivering a festival-like atmosphere with live beach concerts and family-friendly events. Alongside the pro action, beachgoers enjoyed music performances, learn-to-surf sessions, and sustainability initiatives benefiting ocean preservation.
Attention now shifts to Portugal for the Ericeira Pro, the fourth stop on the Challenger Series, where rising stars will look to build on their Huntington Beach success. Surf fans can look forward to more world-class performances and further shake-ups in the race for Championship Tour qualification.
Sources
- Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson Win Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, World Surf League.
- 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. - Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico To Host Marquee Competitions for WSL Longboard Tour and
Challenger Series, New Live Music Performances Announced, World Surf League.
