Australian surfing icon Stephanie Gilmore has delivered a remarkable performance, defeating reigning world champion Caity Simmers in the Gold Coast Pro on Thursday.
Gilmore, who is competing in the World Surf League (WSL) for the first time in nearly two years, advanced to the quarter-finals after narrowly edging out Simmers in the round of 16. The eight-time world champion scored 12.84, surpassing the American’s 12.50 in a closely contested heat.
The competition, which had been paused for three days, resumed with high energy at Burleigh Heads. As a wildcard entry, Gilmore’s victory over Simmers, currently ranked world No. 2, was one of the standout moments of the event.
Looking ahead, Gilmore will face Canadian surfer Erin Brooks in the quarter-finals, as she aims to extend her successful return to the WSL.
In other notable results, Isabella Nichols, fresh off a victory at Bells Beach, will compete against fellow Australian Sally Fitzgibbons in the quarter-finals. Molly Picklum, also from Australia, secured a spot in the final eight.
Meanwhile, world No. 1 Gabriela Bryan suffered an unexpected loss to Brazilian rising star Luana Silva, joining Simmers as a major casualty in the competition.
On the men’s side, the round of 32 is still ongoing. Australian Ethan Ewing was eliminated by compatriot Morgan Cibilic, continuing the unpredictable nature of the event.
The Gold Coast Pro continues to showcase thrilling performances from both veterans and emerging talents as the competition heats up.