Sally Fitzgibbons, the seasoned Australian surfer, has caused one of the biggest upsets of the 2025 season by defeating reigning world champion and Bells Beach titleholder Caty Simmers, in what was a standout performance at the iconic Victorian surf spot.
Fitzgibbons, competing in her 15th Bells Beach event, has long been a formidable presence at the competition, ranking third for all-time heat wins. Yet, despite her past successes, the 34-year-old veteran admitted to feeling the pressure of a challenging season, with just two events remaining before the mid-season cut.
“I had a few sleepless nights,” Fitzgibbons confessed, acknowledging the difficulty of her matchup against Simmers. The reigning champion was considered the favorite, having won at Bells Beach previously, and Fitzgibbons knew that a victory would not only prove her skill but potentially salvage her place in the rankings.
However, the Australian surfer stunned the crowd with an impressive start in their Round of 16 clash, ultimately securing the win. Fitzgibbons’ performance included her highest-rated wave of the season, and she advanced to the quarter-finals with a newfound sense of determination.
“There’s something in the water here,” said Fitzgibbons after the victory. “Everyone has that fight. We all want to be here, and there are only so few spots, so we’ll do everything we can to get one.”
Her victory over Simmers was a testament to her enduring competitive spirit. Despite missing the cut for the last three years, Fitzgibbons showed that her passion and dedication have not waned. “It takes day-in, day-out training to get through these heats. I want to be up against the best, and today it worked out,” she said.
The win also marked an emotional moment for Fitzgibbons, who has twice finished as runner-up at Bells Beach. As she celebrated, the emotional significance of her victory was palpable.
Fitzgibbons’ performance was one of two major upsets on the day. In another surprising result, fellow Australian and World No. 3 Molly Picklum was eliminated in the Round of 16 by Brazil’s 12th-ranked Luana Silva. Silva, competing in her first Championship Tour season, edged out Picklum in the opening heat of the day.
Picklum had come into the event with a strong track record, having reached the final four in every World Surf League event this season, including two runner-up finishes. Despite her success this year, she was unable to replicate her previous Bells Beach performances, where she finished second two years ago.
With Fitzgibbons and Silva advancing to the next round, the stage is set for an exciting continuation of the 2025 World Surf League competition at Bells Beach.