Tatiana Weston-Webb, the renowned Brazilian surfer and Olympic silver medalist, has announced her withdrawal from the remainder of the 2025 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. This decision comes as she prioritizes her mental health amidst the pressures of elite competition.
Key Takeaways
- Tatiana Weston-Webb withdraws from the 2025 WSL Championship Tour to focus on her mental health.
- The 28-year-old athlete has faced emotional and physical exhaustion, prompting her decision.
- Weston-Webb emphasizes the importance of mental health in sports and aims to return stronger.
- The WSL supports her decision and will open a wildcard spot for other competitors.
Acknowledging Mental Health
In her heartfelt statement, Weston-Webb expressed gratitude for her achievements and the support she has received throughout her career. She stated, "This has not been an easy time for me. I am incredibly grateful for everything I have achieved in surfing so far, and for the support I have always received from my sponsors, team, and fans."
She highlighted the emotional toll that competitive surfing can take, saying, "Recently, I realized that I needed to pay closer attention to my emotional health. As an athlete, I have always been passionate about what I do, but I also know that taking care of my well-being is essential to honoring my passion and continuing to compete at a high level."
The Impact of Competition
Weston-Webb’s decision follows a challenging start to the 2025 season, where she struggled to secure high placements in the first three events. Currently ranked 17th in Championship Tour points, she has not won a heat this season, finishing ninth in both the Lexus Pipe Pro and the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, and 17th at the MEO Rip Curl Pro Portugal.
Her withdrawal is part of a broader trend in professional surfing, where several top athletes are stepping back to focus on their mental health. Notably, three-time world champion John John Florence has also announced a break from competition this season.
Support From The WSL
The World Surf League has publicly supported Weston-Webb’s decision, with WSL Commissioner Jessi Miley-Dyer stating, "Tatiana’s well-being comes first, and we admire her openness in prioritizing her health. Tati is one of the most dynamic and accomplished surfers of her generation. We know fans around the world will continue to support her on her journey, and we wish her all the best during this time."
In light of her withdrawal, the WSL will open a wildcard spot for other female surfers at each remaining event, allowing for new opportunities in the competition.
Looking Ahead
Weston-Webb reassured her fans that this break is not an end but a new beginning. She stated, "I know that with everyone’s support, I will return to the water stronger, more self-aware, and more passionate than ever."
As she takes this necessary time for self-care, the surfing community and her fans eagerly await her return, inspired by her courage to prioritize mental health in a demanding sport.
Sources
- Weston-Webb takes mental health break from 2025 WSL season, Spectrum News.
- Tatiana Weston-Webb Takes Break from 2025 Championship Tour, Gold Coast Magazine.
- Tatiana Weston-Webb Withdraws from WSL, Citing Mental Health, SURFER Magazine.
- Tatiana Weston-Webb Announces Pause from Remainder of 2025 Championship Tour Season to Focus on Well-being | Surf News Network, Surf News Network.
- WSL Surfer Takes Step Back From Championship Tour To Focus on Emotional Health, Sports Illustrated.
