Sophie McCulloch has received the WSL replacement slot after Carissa Moore announced her departure from the 2024 WSL Championship Tour.
Eight-time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore has also announced that she will take a one-year break but plans to return to competition next year. The WSL has confirmed that she will receive a 2025 tour wildcard.
Gilmore said: “I’m planning to take this tour season off as a refresh for myself physically, mentally, and to enjoy following swells and free surfing in new places. I have some projects and trips I want to do, which haven’t been possible while traveling for the tour season. I’m still passionate and dedicated to competing, and I have goals and dreams that I’m still chasing – I’m excited for something fresh this year and I look forward to returning to competition in 2025.”
The Championship Tour kicks off at the Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii from January 29 – February 10, with 36 male and 18 female surfers set to compete during the regular season.
Stay tuned to Surfing Australia’s Instagram for the lead-up and action at Pipe as it unfolds.
