Big Changes in the Surfing World: From Cloud 9 to the Desert and Beyond
The 2026 WSL Championship Tour is getting a major upgrade with the addition of Cloud 9 in the Philippines, a legendary break known for its flawless barrels. As reported by Gold Coast Magazine, the event will run from October 31 to November 10, offering surfers a chance to tackle one of the world’s most iconic waves. Current Men’s CT leader Leonardo Fioravanti is already hyped, calling it a ‘super exciting’ opportunity for regular-footed surfers to score forehand barrels.
Meanwhile, California’s DSRT Surf park in Palm Desert is making waves as a potential game-changer for artificial wave technology. According to AOL.com, the facility uses Wavegarden’s Cove system to generate up to 1,000 waves per hour, from beginner-friendly rollers to steep barrels. Surfers like Jacob ‘Zeke’ Szekely and Rob Machado tested the park’s capabilities, with Szekely declaring it the ‘best wave pool in the world.’ The park’s grand opening in late summer 2026 will also feature a luxury hotel and villas, blending surf culture with desert vibes.
And in a move that’s equal parts nostalgia and strategy, 54-year-old Kelly Slater will compete at the Tahiti Pro as a wildcard. As covered by The Inertia, Slater’s return to Teahupo’o—where he’s won five times—comes after recovering from hip surgery. While critics question if wildcards for veterans like Slater overshadow younger talent, his track record in heavy surf makes this a compelling storyline. For photographers, these events offer prime opportunities: Cloud 9’s barrels, DSRT Surf’s futuristic tech, and Slater’s legendary status are all gold for capturing the sport’s evolving narrative.
