In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Filipe Toledo emerged victorious at the Gold Coast stage of the World Surf League (WSL) on Saturday, May 10, 2025, defeating Australian rival Julian Wilson in a thrilling final that echoed their previous encounters. This win marks Toledo's 18th career title and his first since returning to competition after a year-long hiatus for mental health reasons.
The final, held at Burleigh Heads, was a rematch of their 2015 showdown, where Toledo also claimed victory. This time, the Brazilian scored an impressive 17.60 points against Wilson's 17.20, showcasing his dominance throughout the event. Toledo's performance was highlighted by his ability to secure the only perfect score of the competition, a 10, during the semifinals against compatriot Alejo Muniz.
Toledo's journey to the final was no easy feat. He started strong, defeating Yago Dora, the current world number two, in the quarterfinals. In the semifinals, he dazzled the crowd with a flawless wave that earned him the coveted perfect score, setting the stage for his final showdown with Wilson.
From the outset of the final, Toledo displayed his trademark aggression. Just three minutes into the heat, he executed a stunning aerial maneuver, earning an 8.53 from the judges. Wilson responded with an 8.10, but Toledo quickly regained control, scoring an 8.53 on his next wave. As the heat progressed, Wilson fought back with scores of 7.73, 8.80, and 8.40, but it wasn't enough to overcome Toledo's lead.
Toledo's confidence soared as he continued to find the best waves, ultimately landing a final score of 9.07, which practically sealed the victory. The final score of 17.60 to 16.90 reflected not only Toledo's skill but also his resilience after a challenging year away from the sport.
Following this victory, Toledo climbed to sixth place in the WSL rankings, a significant leap that secures his spot in the season's second half. He now sits behind fellow Brazilian Italo Ferreira, who leads the rankings, and Yago Dora, who is in second place. Other Brazilian surfers, including Miguel Pupo in ninth and Alejo Muniz in sixteenth, are also well-positioned as the season progresses.
In the women's final, Hawaiian Bettylou Sakura Johnson made headlines by defeating Australian Sally Fitzgibbons with a score of 15.33 to 7.83, marking her first victory on the WSL tour. This win propelled Johnson from 13th to 7th in the rankings, as she aims for a successful season. Meanwhile, Brazilian Luana Silva, despite being eliminated in the quarterfinals, advanced to ninth place with her performance.
The Gold Coast event was not just a personal triumph for Toledo; it also underscored Brazil's strength in the surfing world, with multiple athletes making their mark in the rankings. With six Brazilian surfers currently in the Top-22, the country remains a formidable force in the WSL.
As the tour moves to Margaret River for the next stage, the anticipation builds for what promises to be another thrilling competition. With Toledo back in form and the Brazilian contingent performing strongly, the surfing world will be watching closely.
