Huntington Beach, California – The iconic Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico concluded with a dramatic finals day, crowning Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson as champions. Surfers battled challenging three-to-six-foot waves, delivering exceptional performances that etched their names into the event’s storied history.
Key Takeaways
- Sawyer Lindblad secured her second US Open of Surfing victory, solidifying her status as a surfing icon.
- Levi Slawson achieved a career-defining moment with his maiden Challenger Series win.
- The event saw significant shifts in the Challenger Series rankings, with new frontrunners emerging.
Lindblad’s Dominance Continues
Sawyer Lindblad, a 19-year-old from the USA, added another prestigious title to her resume, claiming her second US Open of Surfing victory. This win places her in elite company alongside past champions like Sally Fitzgibbons and Kanoa Igarashi. Lindblad, who previously used a US Open win to secure her spot on the Championship Tour (CT), demonstrated remarkable skill throughout the competition. Her final heat against 14-year-old phenom Tya Zebrowski was a closely contested affair, with Lindblad ultimately prevailing through a combination of powerful forehand and precise backhand maneuvers.
"It feels pretty good. The first time I felt like I wasn’t expecting it, and this time I felt more pressure," Lindblad commented after her win. "Tya [Zebrowski] was surfing super good so congrats to her and I’m just so grateful to have one here again with my family here."
Slawson’s Breakthrough Victory
Encinitas, California’s Levi Slawson achieved a major career milestone by winning the men’s division of the US Open of Surfing. This marks his first Challenger Series win and propels him to No. 4 in the rankings, bringing him closer to CT qualification. Slawson faced tough competition, including perennial threat Mateus Herdy in a nail-biting final. His performance was highlighted by an explosive air-reverse early in the heat, setting the tone for his victory.
"I’ve worked so hard for these kind of moments through my career and I’ve watched the US Open my whole life, and I’ve never even dreamt of being here," said Slawson. "Being in the Final with Mateus was so hard. He’s such a good surfer and you can’t really give him anything."
Rising Stars and Ranking Shifts
The event also showcased the emergence of new talent. 14-year-old Tya Zebrowski from France delivered an impressive performance, reaching the women’s final and climbing to the No. 1 spot on the Challenger Series rankings. On the men’s side, Mateus Herdy of Brazil reaffirmed his status as a qualification threat, finishing runner-up and moving to No. 2 in the rankings.
The next stop on the 2025 Challenger Series is the Ericeira Pro in Portugal, scheduled from September 29 to October 5.
Sources
- Sawyer Lindblad, Levi Slawson stake their claim in US Open of Surfing history w/ Southern California Sweep I
805 Post Show Finals Day, World Surf League. - Sawyer Lindblad and Levi Slawson Win Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, World Surf League.
