(Photo by Cait Miers/World Surf League)
Filipe Toledo & Caroline Marks crowned at Lower Trestels
Lower Trestles, San Clemente, California (September 9, 2023) – In a breathtaking showdown of world-class talent and jaw-dropping waves, Caroline Marks of the USA and Brazil’s Filipe Toledo emerged as the 2023 World Surf League (WSL) World Champions at the Rip Curl WSL Finals. With powerful performances and historic moments, this year’s event will be etched in surfing history.
Filipe Toledo: Back-to-Back Brilliance
Filipe Toledo, the 28-year-old sensation from Ubatuba, Brazil, etched his name in history by clinching his second consecutive World Title.
Toledo’s dominance in the 2023 CT season, with victories at Sunset Beach, El Salvador, and J-Bay, made him the man to beat. In an intense battle against Ethan Ewing during the men’s Title Match 1, Toledo’s outstanding performance earned him a near-perfect score of 9.00, ultimately securing his second World Title.
Toledo’s historic achievement made him the first Brazilian surfer to win back-to-back World Titles, a testament to his unwavering dedication and sacrifices. “It’s so hard to put into words what it took for me to be here right now,” Toledo remarked, highlighting the sacrifices he made to reach this pinnacle.
Caroline Marks: A Maiden Triumph
Caroline Marks, the 21-year-old Floridian who now calls California home, entered the Rip Curl WSL Finals as the third seed.
Her journey culminated in an awe-inspiring performance against five-time world champion Carissa Moore. Her dominance throughout the day left an indelible mark on Lower Trestles, confirming her provisional qualification for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
Marks’ backhand prowess was undeniable, leading to a sensational Title Match against Carissa Moore. Marks clinched the title with excellent scores, including a crucial 8.67 and an impressive 8.43.
Moore and Ewing: Runner-Up Performances
Carissa Moore’s dominant run throughout the 2023 season earned her the No. 1 seed entering the Rip Curl WSL Finals. However, her redemption quest for a World Title was thwarted by Caroline Marks’ incredible form.
Moore’s season featured standout victories at Billabong Pro Pipeline, Margaret River, and the WSL Surf Ranch, but she finished the year as the runner-up for the second consecutive time.
Ethan Ewing’s journey was equally inspiring. Despite overcoming a frightening back injury that threatened his participation in the event, Ewing showcased world-class surfing from start to finish. His runner-up finish marked a career-best result, and his performance at the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach earlier in the year was a highlight.
The Rip Curl WSL Finals delivered excitement and drama, with every surfer leaving their mark on the waves and the hearts of fans. While Caroline Marks and Filipe Toledo basked in the glory of their World Titles, the event celebrated the spirit of surfing and the enduring pursuit of excellence.
