Stephanie Gilmore has announced she will step away from pro surfing for one year in order to take time to focus on her physical and mental health.
Gilmore, an eight-time world surfing champion, said she would take time away from the pro tour so she could spend time “free surfing” in places she otherwise wouldn’t get to surf. She will return to the tour in 2025.
“I am planning to take this time as a refresh for myself physically, mentally, and enjoy following swells and free surfing in new places,” Gilmore said in a statement announcing the break.
“I have some projects and trips I want to do, which haven’t been possible while traveling during the season. I am still passionate and dedicated to competing, and I have goals and dreams that I am still chasing – I’m excited for this year to activate those and I look forward to returning in 2025.”
WSL’s Chief of Sport Jessi Miley-Dyer said the surfing commmunity fully supported Gilmore’s decision to step back. The WSL has also confirmed Gilmore will receive the 2025 season wildcard to make her return.
“While we will miss Steph’s presence on the CT this season, we wholeheartedly support her decision to take this time for herself,” said Miley-Dyer.
“Steph’s influence on surfing and sport has been profound, inspiring countless people around the world. We eagerly await her return in 2025, where she will be welcomed back with the season wildcard, ready to continue her incredible legacy.”
Gilmore has been competing in the Championship Tour since 2007. In 2022, she won her eighth World Title, surpassing a record of 7 world titles previously held by Layne Beachley.
Gilmore’s 12-month departure comes just days after US surfer and defending Olmypic gold medallist Carissa Moore announced she would step away from the World Surf League’s Championship Tour.
Announcing her decision to retire, Moore wrote in a love letter to surfing that “the most important lesson surfing has taught me is to commit, paddle hard, let go of the rails and enjoy the ride.”
“I know who I am, what I want and what is meaningful to me. I am multi-dimensional. I am a surfer, but I am also a wife, sister, daughter, friend,” she wrote. “I want to keep challenging myself in all areas of my life, explore the joy and most importantly, find ways to share more love.”