In an exciting development for the surfing world, eight-time world champion Stephanie Gilmore has announced she will return to professional competition in 2026 at the age of 38.
The Champion's Return
Stephanie Gilmore, who turns 38 in January, has accepted a season-long wildcard to compete on the World Surf League's Championship Tour next season. The Australian surfing legend has been on hiatus from full-time competition since 2024, pursuing other interests including musical performances with rock group Spiderbait, surf documentaries, and business ventures like her own tequila brand.
"The last few years, I've enjoyed time off to do some exploration and other things, but I'm looking forward to heading back to the CT in 2026, and seeing how I compete against the young talent on the tour," Gilmore stated.
Proving She Still Has It
The surfing superstar gave fans a taste of what to expect when she made a surprise appearance at the Gold Coast Pro in May 2024. Using a wildcard entry, Gilmore progressed to the quarter-finals by defeating defending world champion Caitlin Simmers, before ultimately falling to another teenage sensation, Canadian Erin Brooks.
"I'm mostly excited just to see how I go in these challenges again," Gilmore explained. "When you step away from competing full-time, you can really switch off, and it can be hard to get back into that headspace, but I'm excited to feel that energy and that challenge again."
A Changing Competitive Landscape
Gilmore's return comes at a time when women's surfing has seen the emergence of a new generation of talent. During her absence, 22-year-old Molly Picklum from the NSW Central Coast has claimed the world championship, representing the young athletes who now dominate the tour.
Despite stepping away from competition, Gilmore remains one of the sport's most marketable athletes. She recently signed a new eight-year, multi-million dollar endorsement deal with Rip Curl, demonstrating her ongoing value to the surfing industry even without competing.
"I've had incredible opportunities over the last few years, and it's actually been busier than I could have imagined," Gilmore reflected on her time away from the tour.
The 2026 season will begin at the iconic Bells Beach in Victoria come April, where Gilmore will face the new generation of surfers who have emerged during her break. While she may not be the favourite, her experience and record-breaking eight world titles make her a formidable competitor.
"It will be nice to get back on tour and have a schedule mapped out for the year," Gilmore said. "It's been fun, but I'm looking forward to getting back into a bit more of a routine, so we'll see where that leads me."
