Earlier this year, Stephanie Gilmore made the unexpected announcement that she was going to prioritize her physical and emotional health over competitive surfing and take a year-long vacation from the sport. By making this audacious decision, she will not be able to participate in the Olympics in Paris and will have to put her pursuit of a possible ninth world title on hold.
Renowned for her incredible accomplishments over three decades—from winning her first world championship in 2007 to winning her most recent one barely two years ago—Gilmore created waves in 2022 when she made history at the Rip Curl World Surf League Finals in San Clemente, California.
She defeated her fierce opponent, Carissa Moore, in an incredible show of strength, earning her ninth world title to the amazement of fans around.
Many in the sport were shocked by her surprise victory and left in awe of her incredible accomplishment. In the world of competitive surfing, her celebration reflected years of hard work and determination, cementing her place as a living legend.
Gilmore out of olympics
Australia’s Gilmore said; “I simply believed that I might not ever be able to win eight world titles after winning my seventh in 2018.” And Carissa Moore, the five-time world champion, seemed to have such a firm grip on the Tour, and the talent that was emerging was just so good. an article from Skysports shared.
For every one of us, it was an entirely new experience to move up from fifth place to first place and ultimately win the title from someone like Carissa.
When Gilmore was barely ten years old, she caught her first wave and became passionate about surfing which would take her to the World Tour stage in less than ten years. Beyond all expectations, she became the world champion in less than two years after winning her first race as a wildcard at the 2005 Roxy Pro Gold Coast.
However, throughout her incredible adventure, Gilmore comes up against a persistent stereotype in the sport: the excessive focus on women’s looks and apparel. Despite the difficulties, her undying commitment to surfing goes beyond social standards, inspiring many enthusiasts all over the world.
Cover Photo: IG
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