Fiji Pro 2026: Brisa Hennessy and Yolanda Hopkins secure top finishes

The Fiji Pro 2026, part of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour, concluded with significant performances from Costa Rican and Portuguese surfers.

Costa Rican surfer Brisa Hennessy secured third place at Cloudbreak, marking her best result of the season. Her run included victories over reigning world champion Molly Picklum in the round of 16 and Lakey Peterson in the quarterfinals. Hennessy’s performance earned her 6,085 points, moving her up to 18th in the world rankings. She remains two spots away from the Top 16, which is critical for securing a position in the final three stages of the tour and automatic qualification for the 2027 World Tour.

Portuguese surfer Yolanda Hopkins finished in fifth place. After reaching the quarterfinals, she was eliminated by Australia’s Isabella Nichols. This result helps Hopkins climb to 14th in the world rankings, strengthening her bid for direct requalification for the 2027 World Tour. Additionally, Portuguese surfer Francisca Veselko finished ninth, moving up to 22nd in the rankings and maintaining her chances via the Challenger Series.