Eight-time World Surf League (WSL) champion Stephanie Gilmore has announced that she will not participate in the 2025 Championship Tour (CT), extending her hiatus from full-time competition for another year.
The 36-year-old surfing icon made the decision public just days before the 2025 season is set to begin. Gilmore, who previously took a step back from the 2024 season, confirmed she will continue her break to focus on personal recovery and exploration.
“After careful consideration, I’ve decided to take another season away from the WSL Tour,” Gilmore said 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!”
In 2024, Gilmore shifted her focus from competition to enjoying surf experiences around the world. She made her Rip Curl Search debut alongside notable surfers Mason Ho and Tom Curren, captivating fans with her free-surfing style.
Following her announcement, the WSL revealed that Luana Silva will replace Gilmore on the 2025 Championship Tour. Silva, a rising star in Brazilian surfing, earned a spot after a standout 2024 season. As the first Brazilian woman to win the WSL World Junior Title, Silva had a strong run in the 2024 CT, making it to two quarterfinals before narrowly missing the Mid-season Cut. She also impressed at the 2024 Paris Olympics, advancing to the quarterfinals, and capped off the season with a victory at the WSL World Junior Championships in the Philippines.
“Luana Silva had an incredible 2024, with multiple notable finishes on the CT and a historic World Junior Championship victory,” the WSL stated. “The 20-year-old has previously competed in the CT in 2022 and 2024 and will now have the opportunity to showcase her talent at the highest level.”
As for Gilmore’s future in competitive surfing, it remains uncertain. However, the WSL has granted her a Wildcard for the 2026 season, should she choose to return. Her decision to take a break has only heightened anticipation for her potential comeback, leaving fans hopeful for her return to the competition.
For now, Gilmore will continue to enjoy her global surfing adventures, and the surf world will await her next move with keen interest.
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