Molly Picklum has out-pointed American rival Caitlin Simmers to win the Tahiti Pro in a statement result before her Fiji world title charge.
The Australian had already secured the No.1 seeding for the World Surf League Finals later this month by reaching the final in pumping Teahupo’o swell.
Mollie Picklum outpointed America’s Caitlin Simmers to win the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o. Credit: World Surf League
Conditions cleaned up and the waves grew just as Picklum hit the water on Thursday (AEST), Simmers (4.94-point total) wiping out in what would likely have been a 10-point ride as both surfers pushed the limits.
The Australian was all class though, notching three eight-point rides in the heat for her second victory and fifth top-two result this season.
Picklum (17.26) had defied a huge wipe-out to win her semi-final earlier in the event.
“It was sick; so nice to make a few waves and not get so flogged. I feel like I’ve earnt my stripes in this event,” Picklum said. “What a special place; you just feel the energy, the dream comes alive and Fiji next.”
Earlier, Ethan Ewing put his finals fate in compatriot Jack Robinson’s hands when he lost his quarter-final.
Ewing, runner-up last season in an incredible return from multiple spinal fractures, would have secured his Finals spot with a semi-final berth in Tahiti.
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