Kelly Slater advances at Tahiti Pro after defeating Gabriel Medina

The Outerknown Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o has seen significant action during the World Surf League Championship Tour. In a historic men’s heat, 54-year-old American legend Kelly Slater advanced to the third round after defeating three-time world champion Gabriel Medina. Despite breaking his board during the session, Slater secured a two-wave total of 19.06 points. Slater noted that the victory felt like “revenge” following Medina’s win over him in the 2014 final at the same venue.

Other notable men’s performances include Griffin Colapinto, who recorded a perfect 10-point ride and a season-high heat total of 19.60. Jack Robinson also advanced to the third round. Several Brazilian surfers, including Ítalo Ferreira and João Chianca, moved forward, while Yago Dora and Filipe Toledo were eliminated in earlier rounds.

In the women’s competition, 14-year-old local wildcard Kelia Gallina caused an upset by defeating two-time world champion Tyler Wright. Additionally, Portuguese surfer Yolanda Hopkins advanced to the second round after defeating Stephanie Gilmore. The event continues amidst challenging sea conditions and heavy waves.