The 2025 WSL Championship Tour concluded with the Surf City El Salvador Pro, showcasing exhilarating performances from top surfers. Gabriela Bryan and Jordy Smith emerged victorious in their respective categories, thrilling fans with their skills at Punta Roca, La Libertad.
Key Takeaways
- Gabriela Bryan claimed her second WSL Championship Tour victory, defeating Isabella Nichols in the final.
- Jordy Smith triumphed over Matthew McGillivray to secure the men’s title.
- Bryan’s win solidifies her position as a top contender for the WSL world title.
- The event featured intense competition, with several upsets in the earlier rounds.
Gabriela Bryan’s Remarkable Victory
Kauai’s Gabriela Bryan, 23, showcased her talent and resilience in the final round against veteran Isabella Nichols. Bryan scored 14.33, outpacing Nichols, who finished with 11.74. This victory marks Bryan’s second win on the Championship Tour, following her success at the 2024 Margaret River Pro.
Bryan’s journey to the final included a semifinal match against Caity Simmers, where she secured a narrow victory with a score of 10.16 to 9.67. The final was not without drama; Bryan faced equipment issues when her board buckled, allowing Nichols to take the lead momentarily. However, Bryan quickly adapted, scoring a crucial 7.83 just before the end of the heat.
"That was such an insane rollercoaster Final," Bryan reflected. "I made some mistakes, but I was just thinking, ‘Please give me one more wave, and I won’t mess it up.’ I’m feeling so good. I’ve had an amazing time in El Salvador, and I love it here."
Men’s Competition Highlights
On the men’s side, South African surfer Jordy Smith delivered a commanding performance, defeating compatriot Matthew McGillivray with a score of 14.26 to 9.33. Smith’s victory adds to his impressive career, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Event Overview
The Surf City El Salvador Pro took place from April 2 to April 12, 2025, at the renowned Punta Roca surf break. The event attracted top surfers from around the globe, all vying for valuable points in the Championship Tour standings. The competition was fierce, with several notable upsets, including the elimination of top contenders in the earlier rounds.
Upcoming Challenges
With the Surf City El Salvador Pro concluded, the focus now shifts to the next event, the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, starting on April 18. Bryan enters this competition as the No. 2 ranked female surfer, while Smith aims to maintain his momentum in the men’s standings.
As the surfers prepare for the next challenge, fans eagerly anticipate more thrilling performances in the upcoming events of the WSL Championship Tour.
Sources
- Results – Surf City El Salvador Pro 2025, World Surf League.
- Kauai’s Gabriela Bryan wins Surf City El Salvador Pro, Spectrum News.
