Brazilian surfers are making waves at the WSL Pipeline Pro 2025, with three of them securing spots in the semifinals on this final day of competition.
Ítalo Ferreira, Ian Gouveia, and Miguel Pupo showcased their skills, dazzling fans and analysts alike. Ferreira, hailing from Baía Formosa, eliminated Hawaiian surf star Seth Moniz with a decisive score of 14.40 to 11.83.
"Ítalo opened his series with a 7.83, his best wave of the heat," reported Esportelândia, reflecting his dominance against the local favorite. Ferreira demonstrated precision and agility, catching six waves during the heat, and he secured his place among the final four.
Meanwhile, Miguel Pupo triumphed over fellow Brazilian João Chianca, often referred to as Chumbinho, with a score of 10.00 to 6.33. Pupo's performance included solid scores of 5.83 and 4.17, allowing him to run away with the match-up after Chianca incurred interference penalties during the heat.
On the other front, Gouveia, son of Brazilian surf legend Fábio Gouveia, defeated Mexican Alan Cleland with an impressive total of 16.50 to 12.83. Gouveia's heat was highlighted by his surge to victory, capturing scores of 9.00 and 7.50 just minutes before the conclusion.
The anticipation is palpable as the three Brazilian surfers prepare for what could be another historic day for their nation. All eyes will be on the quarterfinals, where Ferreira will face off against Pupo. The winner of this exciting duel will then advance to the semifinals to compete against either Barron Mamiya or Jake Marshall.
Gouveia finds himself facing the legendary Kelly Slater, another monumental matchup expected to draw significant attention from fans around the world. "Ian Gouveia faced the challenge of 11-time world champion Kelly Slater," Esportelândia noted, highlighting the pressure and excitement leading up to Gouveia’s heat.
The last day of the event promises thrilling competition, especially following the Brazilian surfers' triumphant performances. "With Brazilian surfers among the finalists, the audience is eager for spectacular performances," mentioned Esportelândia, capturing the spirit of both the participants and the crowd.
Fans preparing to tune in won’t want to miss this showcase of surf talent at the iconic Pipeline, which serves as the traditional kickoff to the WSL season. The event today is live on SporTV3, with the first call scheduled for 14:30 (BST), leading to heats set to begin at 15:00 (1:00 AM HST).
Ferreira’s elimination of Moniz, combined with Pupo’s successful campaign against Chianca, solidifies Brazil’s strong presence at this year’s Pipeline Pro. This year's edition not only highlights individual talents but also reinforces Brazil's growing legacy within the global surfing community.
With the stage set for thrilling competition and the potential for another title to be contested, viewers across the globe are excited to see how the Brazilian trio will fare against the world's best. Will they achieve another historic season? Only time will tell, but current feelings of optimism resonate with fans and participants alike.