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

The ultimate surfing showdown has concluded in the pristine waters of Fiji, with Yago Dora and Molly Picklum emerging victorious at the Lexus WSL Finals Presented by Corona Cero. The one-day, winner-take-all event saw the world’s top five male and female surfers battle it out for the coveted 2025 World Titles.

Key Takeaways

• Molly Picklum and Yago Dora claimed the 2025 World Surf League Championship titles.
• The finals were held at the iconic Cloudbreak and potentially Restaurants surf breaks in Fiji.
• A significant swell arrived, providing challenging and epic conditions for the surfers.
• The event format saw a ‘Final Five’ compete on the single best day of waves within the waiting period.

A Dramatic Conclusion in Paradise

The Lexus WSL Finals Fiji, held from August 27 to September 4, 2025, culminated in a thrilling conclusion as a powerful swell graced the Fijian coast. Surfers battled not only each other but also the formidable waves of Cloudbreak and the potential of Restaurants, a break known for its perfection.

World Champions Crowned

In the men’s division, Yago Dora (BRA) showcased his exceptional skills, needing just 35 minutes to overcome Griffin Colapinto (USA) in the Title Match. This victory marks a significant achievement for Dora, solidifying his place in surfing history.

On the women’s side, Molly Picklum (AUS) engaged in a hard-fought, best-of-three Title Match against Caroline Marks (USA). After a grueling battle, Picklum emerged victorious, clinching her maiden World Title.

The Final Five

The competition featured the top five male and female surfers who qualified through the Championship Tour season. The men’s field included:

• Yago Dora (BRA) – No. 1 Seed
• Jordy Smith (RSA) – No. 2 Seed
• Griffin Colapinto (USA) – No. 3 Seed
• Jack Robinson (AUS) – No. 4 Seed
• Italo Ferreira (BRA) – No. 5 Seed

The women’s lineup comprised:

• Molly Picklum (AUS) – No. 1 Seed
• Gabriela Bryan (HAW) – No. 2 Seed
• Caity Simmers (USA) – No. 3 Seed
• Caroline Marks (USA) – No. 4 Seed
• Bettylou Sakura Johnson (HAW) – No. 5 Seed

Epic Conditions and Anticipation

The waiting period saw anticipation build as organizers monitored an incoming swell. WSL Deputy Commissioner Renato Hickel noted the potential for a ‘swell of the year,’ with a strong forecast pointing towards September 1st and 2nd as prime days. The event ultimately ran on a day that delivered the necessary power and shape for a world-class showdown, with both Cloudbreak and Restaurants being considered as potential venues.

Sources

• World Title glory awaits in paradise, proper swell inbound for Lexus WSL Finals Fiji | Corona Cero Dawn
  Patrol, World Surf League.
• ‘Swell of the Year’ Headed to Fiji for WSL Finals Day (Video), SURFER Magazine.
• Highlights: Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero, World Surf League.
• 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.
• Opening Day of official holding period is Wednesday! But Next Call Sept 1st. Final 5 Surfers Ready to
  Challenge for 2025 World Titles at Lexus WSL Finals Fiji Presented by Corona Cero, Surf News Network.