Surfing Legend Announces Stunning Comeback
The world of professional surfing has been set alight with the announcement that eight-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore will be making a sensational return to the World Surf League tour in 2026. The Australian icon, now 37, has been on a two-year hiatus from the sport but has confirmed her intentions to compete once more against the new generation of surfing talent.
Motivation and Wildcard Entry
Gilmore's desire to test herself against the tour's rising stars, such as current world champion Molly Picklum and Canadian teenage sensation Erin Brooks, was a primary driver behind her decision. This ambition has been recognised by the WSL, which has awarded the veteran a coveted season wildcard for her comeback.
In an official statement, Gilmore reflected on her time away, saying, "The last few years, I've enjoyed time off to do some exploration and other things. But I'm looking forward to heading back in 2026 and seeing how I compete against the young talent on the tour." She admitted that stepping away from full-time competition allows an athlete to truly switch off, making it difficult to re-enter that competitive mindset, but expressed excitement at facing that challenge again.
New WSL Format Paves the Way
A significant factor influencing Gilmore's return was the WSL's decision to overhaul its competition schedule. The controversial mid-season cut has been removed, and the final event of the season at the legendary Pipeline in Hawaii will now offer extra points, making it the definitive location where the world champion will be crowned.
Gilmore praised the changes in an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, stating, "The schedule just looks amazing. The format that we had the last few years was incredibly tough. I think the WSL have really made the best decision, given Pipeline is the pinnacle of professional surfing. So to have the world champion crowned there is going to be epic."
Gilmore's place in surfing history is already secure. With her eighth title secured in 2022, she surpassed fellow Australian Layne Beachley's seven titles. Today, only the legendary Kelly Slater, with 11 world championships, has more career silverware than Gilmore.
Fans won't have to wait long to see her back in action. Stephanie Gilmore is scheduled to make her official competitive return at the Bells Beach Pro in Victoria next April, marking the beginning of a highly anticipated new chapter in her storied career.
