While 2024 saw some remarkable moments in surfing, including world-class barrels and personal victories, the year also brought its share of letdowns. From environmental disasters to poor competitive performances, here’s a look at some of the most significant setbacks in the sport.
Bali’s Uluwatu Cliff Controversy: A Growing Environmental Concern
In May, Bali’s Badung Regency government made headlines with plans to protect the Pura Luhur Uluwatu Temple by constructing a seawall around the base of the iconic Uluwatu cliffs. The project, which includes carving out large sections of the cliff and launching boulders into the ocean, has sparked concern among locals and environmentalists. Additionally, roads are being built through the remaining vegetation, further disrupting the natural landscape.
Despite the ongoing construction, there has been no Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted, and there are significant concerns about how this will affect marine life and wave quality at the renowned surf spot. With no clear plan to evaluate the full extent of the project’s implications, this issue is expected to impact the area for years to come.
Nazare’s Disappointing Big Wave Season
Portugal’s famed big-wave destination, Nazare, saw a significant decline in action this past winter. Despite growing interest in the spot, the waves failed to live up to expectations. The World Surf League (WSL) was forced to hold its tow competition in January under subpar conditions, as a series of west swells failed to generate the necessary energy to produce the giant waves Nazare is known for.
When larger northwest swells did roll in, they were often accompanied by onshore winds, making them difficult to ride. Though a few brave surfers, including Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca and Sebastian Steudtner, made the most of the conditions, the season was generally lackluster. While there was a memorable 100-foot-adjacent session, the giant waves many had hoped for never materialized. Surfers and fans alike are hoping the beast that is Nazare will return to form in the near future.
CT Underperformers: Kanoa Igarashi and Gabriel Medina Fall Short
While the term “flop” may be harsh given the dedication and skill of surfers like Kanoa Igarashi and Gabriel Medina, the results of their 2024 campaigns were undeniably disappointing. Igarashi, who had set his sights on a spot in the WSL Finals, began the season with high hopes after a strong runner-up finish at Sunset. However, inconsistent results throughout the year—marked by finishes of 9th and 17th—left him outside the top rankings, ending the year at World No. 18. For a surfer of his caliber, this was a letdown.
Gabriel Medina, a three-time World Champion, also had a season below expectations. Though he put in a solid effort, Medina failed to reach the Finals in any of the events, with three semifinals appearances marking his best results. As a result, he missed out on a place in the WSL Finals. Despite winning a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, his performance in the WSL left many questioning whether his best years were behind him. For a surfer who had dominated the sport, his performance in 2024 was underwhelming.
The Japanese Government’s Controversial Arrest of Paul Watson
In July, Paul Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society and a leading figure in marine conservation, was arrested in Greenland on an international warrant issued by the Japanese government. The charges stem from his anti-whaling activities, including ship trespass dating back to 2010. At 73 years old, Watson’s arrest has garnered global attention, particularly due to the potential for extradition to Japan, where he faces up to 15 years in prison.
Watson’s activism has been a lifelong effort to protect the world’s oceans, but his arrest has cast a shadow on Japan’s stance on conservation. A petition is currently circulating to urge Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to intervene in his case and release Watson from custody. As the international community rallies for his release, Watson’s arrest highlights the ongoing tension between environmental activism and government policies.
In 2024, while there were significant achievements in surfing and ocean conservation, these setbacks serve as reminders of the challenges facing both the sport and the planet. Whether it’s environmental degradation, unfulfilled expectations, or political controversies, these incidents highlight the unpredictable nature of the surfing world and the global stage.
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