Florence and Marks reign supreme at WSL El Salvador Pro
John John Florence and Caroline Marks emerged as the champions at the Surf City El Salvador Pro, securing their spots in the rankings and adding excitement to the end of the World Surf League season.
In a gripping match, Florence, a two-time World Champion, showcased his skills against Yago Dora.
He started strong with an 8.5 score, followed by a 7.83, putting pressure on Dora.
Despite Dora’s 9.77 ride, he couldn’t catch up to Florence’s lead.
This win marks Florence’s first victory since Pipeline in 2021.
Reflecting on his performance in a heat interview Florence admitted it was a tough battle;
“That was tough and I got a little lucky in the end with it going flat,” said Florence.
“I’m just super stoked to win an event. In the end, I was thinking not another second, I gotta get the win in this one then, when he [Yaog Dora] got that 9, I just thought, ‘Oh no, there’s going to be sets,’ but then it just went flat. I can’t believe it. I’m just feeling so good with where I’m at right now, my headspace, everything.
Florence’s triumph cements his position at the top of the rankings.
Jack Robinson’s quarterfinal finish elevated him to second place, while Jordy Smith surpassed Italo Ferreira for fifth place.
Gabriel Medina and Yago Dora also made moves up the rankings, to sixth and eighth, respectively.
The women’s final featured Caroline Marks competing against Gabriela Bryan.
The heat started off slowly, with Marks taking the lead.
Both surfers hit their stride in the middle of the competition, displaying their abilities.
In the end, Marks clinched victory with a score of 14.80, narrowly outscoring Bryan’s 14.46.
“That feels really good, and El Salvador is always so good to me,” said Marks.
“It kickstarted my campaign to win the World Title last year. I love Punta Roca. It was also really cool to have a Final with Gabby [Bryan]. She’s a really good friend of mine on Tour, and winning feels good. I’m really happy. That’s why I’m here. I want to win as many World Titles as I can, and I’m super aware of how hard it is to get one, but I just need to focus on myself and my performances. I would absolutely love to go back-to-back to be the World Champion, but for now, I’m just going to enjoy this.”
Marks win propelled her to second place in the rankings behind Caitlin Simmers.
Brisa Hennessy, Molly Picklum, and Johanne Defay complete the five.
With two events left, before the finals at Trestles all eyes will be in the Rio Pro set for June 22 – 30.
