
In the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, the competition kicked off with an impressive 384 waves ridden on the first day. Sixteen surfers advanced to the next round, while 20 were eliminated in three-foot waves at the Surf Abu Dhabi facility on Hudayriyat Island. Rookie Jackson Bunch made headlines by defeating current World No. 1 Barron Mamiya and CT veteran Miguel Pupo, marking his first heat win on the Tour. Bunch`s standout performance included a lofty, clean execution on his final run, propelling him into the Round of 16.
Mateus Herdy was the only wildcard to advance, while Bronson Meydi impressed with his air game but fell short in the night session. Ethan and Jordy displayed solid rail work, but Filipe Toledo stood out as the best among the pros, fitting the waves perfectly with his small stature and dynamic quad suit.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Gold Coast Open, a WSL QS1000-rated competition, is set to take place at Burleigh Heads from February 14 to 16, featuring divisions for both men’s and women’s shortboard and longboard, celebrating the region`s surf culture.
#Surfing,#TylerWright,#BarronMamiya,#SurfAbuDhabi,#GoldCoastOpen