Australian surfing icon Stephanie Gilmore to continue break from full-time WSL competition

Eight-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore has announced she will continue her break from full-time competition on the World Surf League’s Championship Tour in 2025.

Reigning men’s world champion John John Florence is also stepping away from full-time competition this year as he takes on new projects, promising to be back to chase a fourth world crown next year.

The WSL says 36-year-old Australian Gilmore will receive the 2026 season wildcard — just as she got the wildcard for the 2025 season — allowing her to return to compete full time next year.

“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to take another season away from the WSL Tour,” said Gilmore in a WSL statement.

“This time will allow me to focus on healing from some lingering injuries and redirect my energy toward continuing my adventures of surfing around the globe.

“I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my sponsors, and I wish all the athletes on tour the best of luck this season.”

Florence, the men’s world champion in 2016, 2017 and 2024, will receive the 2026 season wildcard.

“I’ll be focusing on surfing in a different way this year,” said 32-year-old Florence.

“I am looking to explore, find new waves, and push my surfing as far as possible. I’ll be filming into some new projects and sharing my adventures along the way — and intend to compete for another world title in 2026.”

Florence’s spot on the tour this season goes to Alan Cleland Jr, who will become the championship tour’s first full-time Mexican competitor.

Gilmore’s spot on the women’s tour falls to Luana Silva of Brazil.

Due to injury, Brazilian star Gabriel Medina has withdrawn from the first three events on the 2025 men’s tour

American Crosby Colapinto and France’s Johanne Defray have withdrawn from the season opener, the Lexus Pipe Pro, In Hawaii starting on January 27.