Isabella Nichols withdraws from Fiji Pro final due to injury

Australian surfer Isabella Nichols has withdrawn from the Fiji Pro final due to a debilitating ankle injury. The injury occurred during her semi-final match against Costa Rica’s Brisa Hennessy, when Nichols rolled her ankle while attempting to ride a barrel wave.

Nichols confirmed she sustained a high ankle sprain and ligament damage, stating she could barely stand on the affected leg. To prioritize her long-term recovery for upcoming events, she decided not to compete in the final. Her withdrawal resulted in Canadian surfer Erin Brooks being awarded the win.

Despite the injury, the event marked significant progress in the women’s rankings. Brooks moved up to eighth place, while Nichols rose to ninth. Nichols expressed support for Brooks, describing the young Canadian as being “like a little sister” to her.