The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy witnessed a dramatic Day 2, with upsets galore and a few surprises that left the surfing world in awe. The event, known for its unpredictable nature, did not disappoint, as both the women's and men's competitions unfolded with unexpected twists and turns. While the men's Round 2 saw the downfall of a favorite, the women's Round 1 was a spectacle of iconic returns and rookie brilliance.
A Favorite Falls
Ethan Ewing, the multi-World Title contender and 2023 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach champion, was dethroned by the in-form George Pittar. This upset was a significant moment, as Ewing was widely regarded as the man to beat at Bells Beach. The defeat of a favorite always adds an extra layer of excitement to the event, and it certainly did not disappoint. Personally, I think this upset is a testament to the unpredictability of surfing, where form and reputation can be swiftly overturned.
Women's Round 1: A Celebration of Icons and Rookies
The women's Round 1 was a celebration of the sport's icons and a showcase of rookie talent. Carissa Moore, the 5x World Champ and Olympic Gold Medalist, made a triumphant return, besting the 2024 Rookie of the Year, Sawyer Lindblad. However, the real surprise came in the form of Luana Silva, who delivered a hefty upset to the 8x World Champion, Stephanie Gilmore. This defeat of a surfing legend by a rookie is a rare and exciting moment, and it highlights the depth of talent in the women's surfing world.
Alyssa Spencer and Sally Fitzgibbons, both returning to the CT, were triumphant in their starts. Additionally, Europe's rising stars, Francisca Veselko, Nadia Erostarbe, and Anat Lelior, made their full-time rookie debuts, spoiling the CTers' 2026 campaign kickstart. The women's competition is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with a clash of event victors between Moore and defending champ Isabella Nichols, alongside wildcard Dane Henry and multi-World Title contender Griffin Colapinto.
Unfavorable Winds, Favorable Swell
Winds remain unfavorable heading into the weekend action, but the good news is that the swell continues to trickle through the Bight and into Bells Beach. This means that the surfing conditions will remain challenging, adding to the unpredictability of the event. The combination of unfavorable winds and favorable swell is a rare occurrence, and it will undoubtedly test the surfers' skills and adaptability.
A Day to Remember
Day 2 of the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy was a day to remember, with upsets, surprises, and a celebration of the sport's icons and rookies. The event has once again proven to be a true test of skill, form, and adaptability. As the competition unfolds, the surfing world eagerly awaits the next chapter, with the next call scheduled for Sunday, April 5 at 6:45 a.m. AEST.
In my opinion, this event is a testament to the beauty of surfing, where form can be swiftly overturned, and the unexpected can become the norm. The Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy is a true celebration of the sport, and it is an honor to witness such a thrilling competition.
