Kelly Slater, renowned surfing champion, reflects on his illustrious career and considers retirement following a challenging performance at the Margaret River Pro in Western Australia.
Kelly Slater, acclaimed as one of the most influential surfers in the history of the sport, is contemplating retirement after failing to progress beyond the mid-season cut at the World Surf League’s (WSL) Margaret River Pro event in Western Australia. The 52-year-old, who has been confronting a hip injury since 2022, hinted at his career nearing its conclusion post his defeat to Griffin Colapinto. Slater, a Florida native and an 11-time world champion, did not make a formal retirement announcement but expressed a diminished motivation for competitive surfing, stating that his drive hasn’t matched the level required by current competitors.
Slater’s illustrious career, which includes 56 World Tour victories, began in the 1990s when he became both the youngest and oldest surfer to win a world title. Recognised for revolutionising surfing with innovative techniques and playing a significant role in boosting its global appeal, Slater mentioned the possibility of participating in one final event using a wildcard entry for the WSL competition at Fiji’s Cloudbreak – a location fondly regarded by him.
Reflecting on his long odyssey in professional surfing, Slater cherished the memories and relationships formed over his tenure more than the accolades. The surfing community, including competitors like Griffin Colapinto, has acknowledged Slater’s substantial influence on the sport and his enduring legacy within it. His potential retirement marks the end of an era that saw surfing grow and evolve dramatically, with Slater at the forefront of its transformation.
