The World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour is set to welcome back one of its most iconic figures, Stephanie Gilmore, as she enters the Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro as a wildcard. This marks her first appearance in the Championship Tour this season, adding excitement to an already competitive event.
Key Takeaways
- Stephanie Gilmore, an eight-time world champion, returns to competition as a wildcard.
- She replaces Tatiana Weston-Webb for the Gold Coast Pro event.
- The competition site has moved to Burleigh Heads due to changes in the surf conditions.
- Gilmore expresses excitement about competing close to home after a year away from the tour.
A Legendary Return
At 37 years old, Gilmore is not just a seasoned competitor but a beloved figure in the surfing community. Her return to the WSL Championship Tour is highly anticipated, especially as she steps into the spotlight at the Gold Coast Pro. Gilmore’s last competitive heat was in 2023, where she reached the quarterfinals at Teahupo’o. After taking a break to focus on personal interests and recovery from injuries, she is eager to re-engage with the competitive spirit that has defined her career.
The Gold Coast Pro
The Bonsoy Gold Coast Pro is the sixth stop on the WSL Championship Tour and will feature a mix of established stars and emerging talent. The event has been moved from Snapper Rocks to Burleigh Heads due to significant changes in the sand and surf conditions caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Burleigh is known for its right point breaks, which Gilmore believes will suit her surfing style well.
Gilmore’s Thoughts on Competing
In a recent statement, Gilmore shared her enthusiasm about returning to the competition:
"I’m super excited to have this opportunity to get back in the jersey for the CT’s return to the Gold Coast. I’ve been enjoying my time away from Tour, but I’m still a competitor at heart, so I am really looking forward to clicking back into that mindset and testing myself after some time away from competition."
She also mentioned her familiarity with Snapper compared to Burleigh, but remains optimistic about the waves:
"It will be cool to see everyone work out a new wave on Tour, so hopefully, it delivers some of the perfection it’s known for. It will be my first time competing at Burleigh since I was a junior, so I’m looking forward to it."
Wildcard Competitors
Gilmore is one of five wildcards participating in the Gold Coast Pro. The other wildcards include:
- Nadia Erostarbe (replacing Tatiana Weston-Webb)
- Callum Robson (event wildcard)
- Ian Gentil (replacing Gabriel Medina)
- Jordy Lawler (replacing Ramzi Boukhiam)
Conclusion
As the Gold Coast Pro approaches, the excitement surrounding Stephanie Gilmore’s return to the WSL Championship Tour is palpable. Fans and competitors alike are eager to see how she performs after her time away from the competitive scene. With her experience and talent, Gilmore is sure to make a significant impact at this event, promising thrilling moments for all who tune in.
Sources
- Legendary Surfer Stephanie Gilmore enters WSL Championship Tour as Wildcard, Sports Illustrated.
- Stephanie Gilmore Returns to CT as Gold Coast Pro Wildcard, SURFER Magazine.
