WSL Navigates Stormy Seas: Event Relocations, Judging Debacles, and Policy Debates Rock Professional Surfing

The World Surf League (WSL) is currently facing a turbulent period, marked by significant event changes, intense judging controversies, and heated policy debates. From natural disasters impacting iconic surf breaks to questions surrounding artificial wave technology and inclusivity, the professional surfing circuit is navigating a complex landscape.

Key Takeaways

• The Gold Coast Pro has been relocated from Snapper Rocks to Burleigh Heads due to cyclone-induced erosion.
• A judging controversy at the Surf Ranch Pro has led to accusations of bias and calls for greater transparency.
• Surfer Bethany Hamilton has stated she will not compete if the WSL upholds its new transgender participation policy.
• A lawsuit has been filed against the WSL by big-wave surfer Alex Botelho following a near-fatal incident at Nazaré.

Gold Coast Pro Relocation

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has significantly altered the famed Superbank on Australia’s Gold Coast, washing away essential sand from Snapper Rocks. This natural event has forced the WSL to relocate the upcoming Gold Coast Pro, scheduled for May 3rd-13th, to the nearby renowned right-hand point break of Burleigh Heads. While the Tweed Sand Bypass System usually aids in sand replenishment, widespread erosion has limited its effectiveness, making a return to Snapper Rocks unlikely in time for the event. WSL APAC President Andrew Stark expressed regret over the decision but emphasized the priority of ensuring world-class conditions for athletes and fans, expressing confidence in Burleigh Heads as a suitable alternative and a commitment to returning to Snapper Rocks in 2026.

Surf Ranch Pro Judging Controversy

The WSL’s Surf Ranch Pro, held at Kelly Slater’s artificial wave pool, has become the center of a significant judging controversy. Many observers and top surfers, including Italo Ferreira, Gabriel Medina, and Filipe Toledo, believe the judging in the final heat was inconsistent and favored simpler maneuvers over more critical ones. This has reignited long-standing debates about the role of artificial waves in a sport traditionally defined by nature’s unpredictability. Critics argue that the predictable nature of the Surf Ranch waves makes judging difficult and can lead to a "boring to watch" competition, removing the essence of adapting to natural conditions. WSL CEO Erik Logan issued a statement condemning harassment and threats directed at judges and officials, asserting the integrity of the WSL’s judging system.

Transgender Policy Sparks Debate

Surfer Bethany Hamilton has publicly stated her intention not to compete in WSL events if the league upholds its new policy on transgender athlete participation. The policy aligns with the International Surfing Association’s (ISA) rules, requiring transgender women to maintain specific testosterone levels for at least 12 months before competing in the women’s division. Hamilton expressed concerns about the fairness of hormone levels as a sole determinant and suggested the creation of a separate division for transgender athletes. The WSL stated its adoption of the ISA policy is to align with Olympic guidelines, with the ISA committed to reevaluating its policy annually.

Lawsuit Over Nazaré Incident

Big-wave surfer Alex Botelho has filed a lawsuit against the WSL following a near-fatal incident at the 2020 Nazaré Tow Surfing Challenge. Botelho alleges that the WSL ignored safety concerns, misrepresented critical elements of the event’s safety plan, and that he was left unconscious in the water for an extended period. The lawsuit claims lifelong physical, psychological, and financial damages. The WSL has stated that athlete health and safety are their top priority and that they will vigorously defend the league, while declining to comment on the ongoing litigation.

Sources

• Australia’s Best Wave Destroyed; Surf Contest Forced to Move, SURFER Magazine.
• Surf World in Turmoil Over Judging Controversy at Kelly Slater’s Artificial Wave Pool, VICE.
• Bethany Hamilton criticizes WSL’s new transgender policy, Spectrum News 1.
• Bethany Hamilton responds to backlash on WSL transgender policy stance, USA Today.
• A Big-Wave Surfer Is Suing the WSL After Nearly Dying at Nazaré, Outside Magazine.