Legendary Surfer Kelly Slater Teases Farewell to Remarkable Career

Kelly Slater, known as the greatest surfer of all time, hinted that he might have surfed his final competitive wave. Despite crashing out of a tournament in Western Australia, he left fans with hope of one last outing.

The 52-year-old American, who is an 11-time world champion, did not make the cut for the World Surf League's mid-season after being defeated by Griffin Colapinto, a competitor 27 years younger than him, in the round of 32 at the Margaret River Pro.

Slater told World Surf League Monday that this time "feels like the end."

The Florida-born star expressed that everything comes to an end, and if you don't adapt, you don't survive. He mentioned that his motivation has not been there to give 100% like everyone else is doing now.

Slater's era of dominance started in 1992 when he won his first men's world championship at just 20 years old, making him the youngest champion ever. He still holds this record. Nineteen years later, he secured his 11th world title, becoming the oldest champion as well.

During the years in between, Slater was unstoppable as the leading figure in a sport that was considered niche. He reached a level of fame that most of his competitors could only imagine, with major endorsements, a role in the popular 1990s TV show "Baywatch" where he dated co-star Pamela Anderson, and even had his own video game called "Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer."

Eleven-time WSL Champion Kelly Slater of the United States after surfing in Heat 5 of the Round of 32 at the Western Australia Margaret River Pro on April 16, 2024

Eleven-time WSL Champion Kelly Slater of the United States after surfing in Heat 5 of the Round of 32 at the Western Australia Margaret River Pro on April 16, 2024

Surfing is a way of life for Kelly Slater. In an interview with CNN back in 2013, he described it as his religion. The ultimate thrill for any surfer is riding the barrel, the hollow part of a breaking wave. Slater compared it to being in the eye of a storm or even in the womb.

When I'm surfing, it feels like time slows down. I notice everything - how the wave is forming, the timing, positioning myself perfectly in the barrel. It requires all of my focus to get it just right.

Lately, Slater has been facing challenges with injuries and has been hinting at the possibility of retirement.

Despite not qualifying for the tour this year, the legendary surfer mentioned that he might consider entering the competition in Fiji in August.

Reflecting on his career, Slater expressed gratitude for the countless unforgettable experiences he has had. He made these comments during an event at Margaret River on Monday.

He expressed his emotions openly, saying, "It's been a rollercoaster of feelings, with so much dedication and hard work. It hasn't all been easy, but it has definitely been the most fulfilling time of my life."

Even as he nears the end of his legendary surfing career, Slater shared that it feels like "the beginning of a new chapter, the start of a whole new phase of life."

Editor's P/S:

Kelly Slater's potential retirement marks the end of an era in surfing. His unparalleled dominance and longevity have left an unforgettable legacy on the sport, inspiring generations of surfers. While it is bittersweet to see him step away from competitive surfing, it is also a testament to his incredible career. As he enters a new chapter in his life, we can only imagine what other accomplishments and adventures lie ahead for this iconic figure.

Slater's comments about surfing being his religion and the ultimate thrill of riding the barrel provide a glimpse into the deep connection he has with the sport. It is not merely a competition for him but a way of life that transcends the physical act of surfing. His passion and dedication have not only made him a legend but have also helped popularize surfing and bring it to a wider audience. As he moves on from competitive surfing, his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate surfers around the world.