In the final of the Gold Coast Pro, Sally Fitzgibbons faced off against Bettylou Sakura Johnson, with the latter claiming her first World Surf League trophy. Despite Fitzgibbons’ efforts to secure her first Championship Tour title in four years, the 20-year-old Hawaiian competitor emerged victorious with an impressive score of 15.33 compared to Fitzgibbons’ 7.83. Throughout the competition, Fitzgibbons battled fiercely but was unable to match Sakura Johnson’s early lead, with the latter’s strong performance on the waves setting the tone for the final showdown.

Sakura Johnson’s triumph marked a significant milestone in her career, as she expressed her elation at securing her first CT title after a four-year wait. On her path to victory, Sakura Johnson also eliminated top-ranked Australian Molly Picklum in the quarter-finals, showcasing her talent and determination in each round. Fitzgibbons, on the other hand, had a commendable performance throughout the event, with a notable win over Canadian surfer Erin Brooks in the semi-finals.

In the men’s competition, Julian Wilson secured a spot in the final, where he will face off against Brazilian Felipe Toledo in a highly anticipated rematch. Wilson’s return to the CT after a significant hiatus adds an exciting dynamic to the event, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the Gold Coast Pro. With intense competition and standout performances from both established and up-and-coming surfers, the event has been a showcase of talent and determination on the waves.