Maui's Windsurfers Shine at Fiji Surf Pro While Jordy Smith Calls Secret Wave the 'Day of Days'
While Maui's Bernd Roediger and Morgan Noireaux claimed victory and a podium finish at Fiji's legendary Cloudbreak reef, Jordy Smith -- widely regarded as one of the world's most skilled surfers -- dubbed a recent Durban session the 'day of days'. Meanwhile, California's Coachella Valley just got a surf spot that might change the game, with Wavegarden's DSRT Surf opening its doors to riders seeking man-made waves. Read more about Maui's Fiji triumph or dive into the details of Smith's unforgettable session over at The Inertia.
Maui's Windsurfers Take Fiji by Storm
The Fiji Surf Pro at Cloudbreak delivered some of the most demanding conditions ever seen in professional windsurfing, with waves reaching 13 feet. Maui's Bernd Roediger, overcoming a strained ACL and a month-long break from the sport, clinched first place with a final score of 18.07. 'It’s an incredible feeling,' Roediger said. 'I’ve wanted to win here since the last Fiji event in 2023, but to actually win it is totally different. So many things have to go your way. It’s like a blessing.' Morgan Noireaux, another Maui stalwart, secured third place despite inconsistent winds that made it tough to find a second scoring wave after his record-breaking 9.5-point ride. The event also saw France's Antoine Martin take second and Guadeloupe's Camille Juban finish fourth, with several rigs destroyed and competitors sustaining injuries in the process. Full results and stories here.
Jordy Smith's 'Day of Days' in Durban
When a surfer as accomplished as Jordy Smith calls a session the 'day of days,' it’s time to pay attention. The South African legend, joined by Chad Du Toit, James Ribbink, Josh Redman, and Brandon Jackson, scored a supremely hollow wave with a lip thicker than a losing fighter’s and a spit more powerful than a llama’s. 'It’s not a wave that just any old Average Joe could surf,' Smith noted. 'It requires a late drop, a set line, and a few crossed fingers.' The session was a rare treat for those lucky enough to witness it, blending technical precision with raw power. See the full story and video for a glimpse into what makes such waves so special.
California's Desert Wave Revolution
In a move that might redefine where surfers seek their fix, Wavegarden celebrated the opening of DSRT Surf in Coachella Valley, California. This isn't just another wave pool -- it’s a technological marvel capable of producing 1,000 waves per hour, with over 60 customizable wave types. 'I never imagined I would be testing aerial waves in the middle of the desert,' said Jacob 'Zeke' Szekely. The facility offers a 'Twister' setting for barrel enthusiasts and dedicated intervals for aerial training, making it a dream spot for surfers and photographers alike. Sessions are expected to start as low as $60 per hour later this summer, offering an accessible alternative to traditional surf spots. Explore the innovation here.
From Maui's triumphs to Smith's legendary session and California's wave pool debut, July 2026 has been a whirlwind for surfers. Whether you're chasing competition glory, seeking the perfect wave, or exploring new tech, the ocean (and its man-made cousins) are ready to surprise you. What’s your favorite surf development this month? Share your thoughts below!
