Though 2024 sparkles through our freshly clean windscreen, pro surfing’s rear-view mirror has left various dusty mileposts in its 2023 wake. You’d think the disastrous COVID lockdowns would provoke an awe-inspiring tour where wave-riding commoners could celebrate post-solidary confinement and, once again, vicariously “live the dream” of a globe-trotting professional surfer.
After the pandemic ended and freedom to travel returned to the masses, we would never have expected the subpar yawnfests of World Tour mediocracy. What happened to revelling in the professional boundary-pushing performances at the best waves in the world, where we watch and hoot with mates while guzzling beers, the way Aussie cheer squads have done in bygone eras?
Where is the glorious dream
