Jordy Smith’s incredible defeat of Griffin Colapinto in the final at the Margaret River Pro sees him ranked as World No. 1 in the World Surf League (WSL) standings. In a season defined by comebacks, Smith’s is one of the most remarkable, from an eight-year winless drought to two event victories in just two months, he now leads the World Title race with unstoppable momentum.
This latest win builds on Smith’s breakthrough at the Surf City El Salvador Pro, where he stormed past former World Champion Italo Ferreira on the way to an all-South African final.
“This means everything. It’s been a long road back, but I never stopped believing I could be here again. I feel strong, and I’m loving every moment on tour.” – said Jordy.
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- WSL Champion Caitlin Simmers of the United States, Gabriela Bryan of Hawaii, Jordy Smith of South Africa and Griffin Colapinto of the United States at the Western Australia Margaret River Pro. (Photo by Beatriz Ryder/World Surf League) // World Surf League / Red Bull Content Pool
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- Jordy Smith of South Africa surfs in Heat 7 of the Round of 16 at the Margaret River Pro. (Photo by Beatriz Ryder/World Surf League) // World Surf League / Red Bull Content Pool
Finals Day Breakdown
Jordy Smith advanced to the final after knocking out Crosby Colapinto in the semifinals, setting up a highly anticipated showdown with Griffin Colapinto. The final was defined by Smith’s explosive 8.5-point opener, a wave that ultimately decided the event. The rest of the heat remained quiet, with both surfers posting only minor backup scores. Still, Smith’s early dominance secured the win and the yellow jersey.
This victory strengthens Smith’s chances for a long-awaited World Title. He now enters the next three tour stops with confidence, having won each of them in prior seasons. His experience and form mark him as the title favorite heading into the Lexus WSL Finals in Fiji.
Who is Jordy Smith?
Not since Shaun Tomson (or Martin Pottz, depending on who you ask), has South Africa had such a shining and tenacious World Title hopeful to root for.
A two-time runner-up to the world title (in 2010 and 2016), Jordy was plagued with injuries for close to five years. He is a regular winner on the tour. He had three top-five finishes in 2017 and 2019. And in 2019 he was selected to represent South Africa at the Games in Tokyo.
Jordy placed second at the 2021 WSL Boost Mobile Margaret River Pro in Australia. A few years later, he took third place at the WSL Championship Tour in 2024.
In 2025, Jordy won his first event in eight years. He took the gold at Surf City El Salvador Pro on his father’s surfboard. It was an unforgettable moment for the oldest surfer on the Championship Tour. Jordy is fitter and more focused than ever.
Credit: Red Bull Content Pool
