The 2025 Championship Tour is officially underway after a thrilling Pipe Pro event, filled with unpredictable moments and a few surprises. With Barron Mamiya securing a back-to-back win at Pipe and Tyler Wright clinching her first Championship Tour victory since 2023, the season is off to a dynamic start. However, while the event provided plenty of excitement, it also raised more questions about what lies ahead. Here’s a look at five moments from the Pipe Pro that are set to define the upcoming season.
1. Caity Simmers Steps Up Her World Title Defense
While Tyler Wright took home the victory in the Pipe Pro final, it was Caity Simmers who dominated throughout the event, only to be let down by the waves. Her performance, featuring deep Backdoor barrels and smooth grab-rail roundhouses, showcased why she was the best surfer on tour last year — and why she could retain that title this year. Simmers’ confidence and skill are undeniable, making her a serious contender for the world title as the season progresses.
2. The Men’s World Title Is Wide Open
While Mamiya begins the year with the yellow leader’s jersey, there is no clear frontrunner for the men’s world title. With the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro fast approaching and more performance-driven waves on the calendar, the field remains wide open. Top contenders like John John Florence are sitting out this season, Gabe Medina is recovering from an injury, and Filipe Toledo, a favorite for Abu Dhabi, hasn’t competed in over a year. This unpredictability sets the stage for an exciting race as surfers battle for supremacy in the coming events.
3. The Rookies Are Making Their Mark
The 2025 class of rookies is proving that they are ready to compete at the highest level. Al Cleland pulled off a major upset by eliminating Jack Robinson at a pumping Pipe, while fellow Aussie George Pittar followed suit, defeating Kanoa Igarashi. On the women’s side, Erin Brooks and Vahine Fiero may not have had the results they hoped for, but both are primed for breakout performances. Brooks, known for her impressive air game, could shine in Abu Dhabi, while Fiero’s prowess in the barrel makes her a force to be reckoned with.
4. Tyler Wright Eyes Her Third World Title
After a challenging 2024, where injuries and health issues kept her off her best form, Tyler Wright is back with a vengeance. Her victory at Pipe, marked by her signature powerful approach and wealth of experience, shows she’s in top form to fight for a third world title. There have been rumors she may skip the Abu Dhabi event due to the UAE’s stance on LGBTQ rights, but no official confirmation has come from Wright or the WSL at this time.
5. The Brazilian Storm Is Back in Full Force
The Brazilian contingent made a strong statement at Pipe, with Ian Gouveia and Italo Ferreira charging into the semifinals, Miguel Pupo making it to the quarters, and Joao Chianca and Filipe Toledo not far behind. The South American surfers are clearly in form, and their dominance on the North Shore signals that the Brazilian Storm is alive and well. If you’re picking your Fantasy Surfer team for Abu Dhabi, stocking up on Brazilian talent might be a smart move.
With the Pipe Pro now behind us, all eyes turn to the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro next week, where the next chapter of the 2025 Championship Tour will unfold. The stage is set for more surprises, fierce competition, and dramatic moments as the world’s best surfers continue to chase the ultimate title.
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