Competitor Updates Ahead of 2025 CT Season Start at Pipeline
Key Takeaways
- John John Florence and Stephanie Gilmore are taking a break, paving the way for new surfers like Alan Cleland Jr. and Luana Silva.
- Gabriel Medina is injured, allowing 2023 Rookie of the Year Ian Gentil to shine.
- Veteran Kelly Slater continues to push boundaries and look for success at Pipeline.
- Crosby Colapinto and Johanne Defay have withdrawn Pipe
As the 2025 Championship Tour season kicks off, the surfing world is buzzing with anticipation for the Lexus Pipe Pro. This year's tour promises a thrilling ride with dynamic changes shaking up the lineup, as legends take a step back and new talents step up.
Surfing greats John John Florence and Stephanie Gilmore are taking a break this season, opening the wave for fresh faces like Mexico's Alan Cleland Jr., the first Mexican surfer to compete full-time on the CT, and Brazil's rising star, Luana Silva. These shifts promise to deliver exciting new rivalries and narratives that every surf fan will want to follow.
Injury has sidelined Gabriel Medina, but his absence gives room for Hawaiian 2023 Rookie of the Year, Ian Gentil, to make waves early in the season. All eyes will also be on seasoned pros like Kelly Slater, who continues to defy age with his passion and drive, looking to add to his already impressive record at Pipeline.
Johanne Defay and Crosby Colapinto have both withdrawn from Pipe, allowing Spain's Nadia Erostarbe and 2024 rookie Eli Hanneman to replace them in Pipeline.
With a roster packed with talent, including nine rookies ready to make their mark, the 2025 season is set to be an unforgettable one.
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