Surfing, more than a sport, is a culture and a way of life.
Over the past three decades, we have witnessed breathtaking feats and records that have redefined what is possible in the ocean.
From gigantic waves to innovative maneuvers, here's a look back at some of the highlights and the surfers who made them happen.
1. Laird Hamilton and the Teahupo'o Wave (2000)
Laird Hamilton is a legend in the surfing world, known for his bravery and exceptional giant wave surfing skills.
In August 2000, Hamilton surfed one of the most terrifying and perfect waves ever seen in Teahupo'o, Tahiti.
This wave, known as the "wave of the millennium," was not only a personal achievement for Hamilton, but also raised the standard for big wave surfing.
Hamilton is a pioneer of tow-in surfing, a technique that uses jet skis to tow surfers into waves too big to paddle.
This technique allowed surfers to tackle waves much larger and more dangerous than previously thought possible.
In addition to his famous wave at Teahupo'o, Hamilton has surfed huge waves at Jaws, Hawaii, and has been an innovator in the use of hydrofoils for surfing.
2. Kelly Slater and his 11 World Titles (1992-2011)
Kelly Slater is undoubtedly one of the most influential surfers of all time.
Since winning his first world title in 1992, Slater has dominated the surfing world, amassing a total of 11 World Surf League (WSL) world titles.
His consistency, longevity and unmatched talent have made him an icon of the sport.
Slater has not only been dominant in competition, but has also been an innovator in surfboard design and the creation of artificial waves.
His "Surf Ranch," a wave pool in California, has revolutionized surf training and competition, allowing surfers to practice in perfect, predictable conditions.
Slater has also been an environmental advocate, using his platform to promote ocean conservation.
3. Garrett McNamara and the Nazaré Wave (2011)
In 2011, Garrett McNamara broke the world record by surfing a wave of approximately 78 feet (24 meters) in Nazaré, Portugal.
This feat not only put Nazaré on the map as a giant wave surfing destination, but also showed the courage and skill needed to tackle the biggest waves in the world.
McNamara has dedicated his career to seeking out and surfing the biggest and most dangerous waves on the planet.
His obsession with giant waves led him to Nazaré, a small fishing village on the coast of Portugal, where he found the perfect conditions to break the world record.
Since then, Nazaré has become an epicenter of big wave surfing, attracting surfers from all over the world looking to challenge their limits.
4. Carissa Moore and the Women's Surfing Revolution (2009-present)
Carissa Moore has been a pioneer in women's surfing, winning her first world title in 2011 at the age of 18.
Since then, she has racked up multiple titles and has been a tireless advocate for gender equality in surfing.
Her progressive style and dedication have inspired a new generation of female surfers.
Moore has been instrumental in the advancement of women's surfing, not only through her competitive achievements, but also through her influence outside of the water.
She has worked to promote inclusion and equal opportunities for women in surfing, and her success has proven that female surfers can compete at the same level as their male counterparts.
In 2020, Moore made history by winning the first gold medal in surfing at the Tokyo Olympics, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest female surfers of all time.
5. John John Florence and Innovation in Aerial Surfing (2016).
John John Florence is known for his incredible talent and creativity in the water.
In 2016, Florence won his first world title, standing out not only for his skill in big waves, but also for his innovative aerial maneuvers.
His ability to combine power, fluidity and technique has redefined what is possible in modern surfing.
Florence, a native of the legendary North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, grew up surfing some of the most challenging waves in the world.
His technical approach and ability to perform complex aerial maneuvers has greatly influenced the evolution of surfing.
In addition to her competitive successes, Florence has produced acclaimed surf films, showcasing her love for the ocean and her dedication to the sport.
6. Maya Gabeira and her Wave in Nazaré (2018).
Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira made history in 2018 by surfing a 68-foot (20.7-meter) wave at Nazaré, setting the world record for the largest wave surfed by a woman.
This feat underscores her bravery and determination, and highlights the growing role of women in giant wave surfing.
Gabeira has faced numerous challenges in her career, including serious, life-threatening accidents.
Her perseverance and dedication led her to return to Nazaré, where she eventually broke the world record.
Gabeira has been an advocate for big wave surfing safety and has worked to improve training conditions and equipment for other surfers.
7. Kai Lenny and Hydrofoil Surfing (2016-present)
Kai Lenny is one of today's most versatile and pioneering surfers.
In 2016, he began popularizing the use of the hydrofoil in surfing, a board with a special fin that allows the surfer to "fly" above the surface of the water.
This innovation has opened up new possibilities in surfing and has taken the sport to new horizons.
Lenny, a native of Maui, Hawaii, is a multi-sport athlete who masters not only surfing, but also windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddle and hydrofoiling.
His ability to adapt and excel in various disciplines has made him one of the most influential surfers of his generation.
The use of the hydrofoil has revolutionized surfing, allowing surfers to maintain speed and maneuverability even in small or choppy wave conditions.
8. Gabriel Medina and the Brazilian Surfing Era (2014-present).
Gabriel Medina, the first Brazilian to win a WSL world title in 2014, has been a leader in the so-called "Brazilian Storm" in professional surfing.
His success has inspired a new generation of Brazilian surfers who now dominate the world circuit.
Medina is known for his aggressive style and ability to execute complex maneuvers under pressure.
Medina, born in São Sebastião, Brazil, has transformed professional surfing with his competitive approach and technical ability. He has won multiple world titles and is known for his ability to perform innovative and risky aerial maneuvers.
The "Brazilian Storm" refers to the wave of Brazilian surfers that have emerged in the last decade, including Italo Ferreira and Filipe Toledo, who have also made their mark on world surfing.
In short, the last 30 years have been a period of innovation, bravery and impressive achievements in the world of surfing.
These surfers and their exploits have not only taken the sport to new heights, but have also inspired millions of people around the world to grab a board and take on the waves.
