Slater, Nazaré & Wild Waves: Surf World Buzz
The surf world is buzzing with stories that range from the comeback of a legend to the discovery of a wave that breaks the laws of physics. And let's not forget the monsters at Nazaré that challenge even the most seasoned big wave riders.
First up, Western Australia's hidden gem: a wave that looks like it's been photoshopped. Chris White, the mind behind Tension films, didn't just stumble upon it once but rediscovered it after a decade. His initial thought? That it was two waves colliding. But as reported by The Inertia, it's a real phenomenon that has left the internet in awe. White's persistence in finding it again and capturing stunning footage is a testament to the spirit of exploration that drives surfers and photographers alike.
While Western Australia's wave is a rare find, Nazaré in Portugal is a household name for big wave surfers. During the winter season, the waves here can reach a staggering 30 meters, thanks to a massive underwater canyon that amplifies the swell. As covered by The Portugal News, this natural phenomenon has attracted the world's best big wave surfers and thousands of spectators. It's a place where surfers test their limits and photographers capture jaw-dropping shots.
And then there's Kelly Slater. At 53, with a hip replacement behind him, the 11-time world champion isn't hanging up his board just yet. He's set to compete in the Da Hui Backdoor Shootout in January, joining a dream team that includes Jamie O'Brien and others. As shared by The Inertia, Slater's return to competition is a story of resilience and passion that continues to inspire the entire surf community.