Fiji Crowns New World Champions: Picklum and Dora Triumph at Lexus WSL Finals

The legendary waves of Cloudbreak in Fiji served as the dramatic stage for the 2025 Lexus WSL Finals, where Molly Picklum and Yago Dora were crowned World Champions. The winner-take-all event saw the top five male and female surfers battle it out on the single best day of waves during the competition window, culminating in thrilling title matches that etched new names into surfing history.

Key Takeaways

• Molly Picklum (AUS) and Yago Dora (BRA) secured the 2025 World Surf League World Titles.
• The finals were held at the iconic Cloudbreak, Fiji, known for its powerful left-hand barrels.
• The event format featured a ‘Final 5’ for both men and women, competing on the best day of waves within an August 27 – September 4, 2025 window.
• Picklum faced Caroline Marks in a hard-fought women’s final, while Dora battled Griffin Colapinto for the men’s title.

The Road to Fiji

The 2025 Championship Tour culminated in Fiji, with the top five surfers in both the men’s and women’s divisions earning their spot in the high-stakes finals. Surfers like Molly Picklum and Yago Dora entered as the top seeds, having demonstrated exceptional consistency throughout the season. The field included a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, all vying for the ultimate prize.

Cloudbreak’s Challenge

Cloudbreak, renowned for its challenging and powerful left-hand barrels, provided a formidable arena for the world title showdown. The WSL deputy commissioner noted the potential for a "swell of the year," with both Cloudbreak and the nearby Restaurants wave being considered. The surfers were prepared for the demanding conditions, knowing that only total commitment would lead to victory.

The Final Showdown

The women’s final saw Molly Picklum emerge victorious over Caroline Marks in a closely contested best-of-three heat. On the men’s side, Yago Dora showcased his prowess, defeating Griffin Colapinto in a decisive heat. The finals delivered incredible performances, with Cloudbreak testing the mettle of the world’s best surfers. Highlights included Dora’s dominant forehand attack and Picklum’s tenacious battle against Marks.

A New Era of Champions

With the crowning of Molly Picklum and Yago Dora, the 2025 World Surf League season concluded on a high note. The Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero not only delivered thrilling surfing action but also celebrated the dedication and skill of these new world champions on one of the planet’s most iconic waves.

Sources

• Inside Pro Surfing: Lexus WSL Finals Fiji presented by Corona Cero, World Surf League.
• ‘Swell of the Year’ Headed to Fiji for WSL Finals Day (Video), SURFER Magazine.
• Final 5 Surfers Ready to Challenge for 2025 World Titles at Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero |
  World Surf League, World Surf League.
• Highlights: Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero, World Surf League.
• World Title glory awaits in paradise, proper swell inbound for Lexus WSL Finals Fiji | Corona Cero Dawn
  Patrol, World Surf League.