Three-time world champion John Florence has once again demonstrated why he is considered one of the most formidable talents in professional surfing. In his latest video release on YouTube, Florence delivers a blistering performance on a sandbar in Oahu, showcasing a level of skill and power that sets him apart from his peers.
The 7-minute clip, which features no background music, allows Florence’s raw talent to shine through. Despite the challenging conditions—including tricky backwash and inconsistent waves—Florence’s mastery is evident in every wave he rides. From his signature high-speed forehand hacks to smooth roundhouse 360s and flawless backside full rotations, Florence executes each maneuver with precision, proving he is in a class of his own.
While fellow surfers Luke Swanson and Kiron Jabour also make appearances in the clip, Florence’s performance leaves little doubt as to who is leading the charge. It’s a comparison of a high-performance Ferrari against more modest vehicles, with Florence’s fluidity and power making his co-stars’ efforts seem pedestrian in comparison. The entire session, filmed over the course of a single day, further highlights Florence’s remarkable ability to conquer the waves with ease.
Amid rumors of Florence possibly stepping away from the World Surf League (WSL), many are left wondering what the future holds for the Hawaiian prodigy. However, given his current form, it seems unlikely that Florence is ready to retire from competitive surfing anytime soon. While Gabriel Medina has consistently been Florence’s fiercest rival, the possibility of both surfers being in peak health for the 2025 season promises to reignite their rivalry.
With three world titles apiece, the 2025 season will mark the first time in years that Florence and Medina will both be fully fit and competing at the same time on the Championship Tour. Fans are eagerly anticipating what could be an epic showdown between the two at the WSL Finals, potentially at Cloudbreak—an iconic venue that could witness a battle for the ages. If Florence and Medina face off in a high-stakes final, the world of surfing is likely to witness a rivalry that could rival the legendary battles between Kelly Slater and Andy Irons in the early 2000s.
As Florence continues to unleash his power and finesse in the water, it’s clear that the 2025 season will be one to watch, with the prospect of a fierce rivalry shaping up to define the next era in competitive surfing.
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