Picklum wins Rio Pro, tops WSL rankings

Molly Picklum has ascended to the top of the 2025 World Surf League women's rankings after securing a victory at the VIVO Rio Pro in Brazil. The Australian surfer's win comes on the heels of strong performances earlier in the season, including second-place finishes at the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro and Lexus Trestles Pro. In Brazil, Picklum demonstrated her skills by defeating American Caroline Marks and Canadian Erin Brooks in the early heats, while reigning champion Caitlin Simmers was eliminated by Brazilian Luana Silva.

In the semi-finals, Marks faced Silva but was unable to advance, losing 10.43 to 6.57. Meanwhile, Picklum triumphed over Brooks with a score of 13.06 to 7.60, setting the stage for an exciting final. The final featured a favorable swell at Praia de Itaúna, where Picklum delivered an impressive performance, scoring a 6.83 and achieving the highest single wave score of the event, an 8.17, leading to a total heat score of 15.00. After her victory, Picklum expressed her emotional connection to the win, stating, "I've worked so hard this year to really put my best foot forward," and emphasized her excitement about winning in Rio.

In the men's event, American Griffin Colapinto had a standout week, eliminating South African Jordy Smith in the quarter-finals and reaching the final against Cole Houshmand. Colapinto, who had previously found the biggest wave of the event, congratulated Houshmand on his victory, which ended a nearly decade-long Brazilian win streak. Houshmand's performance in the final showcased his skills, securing him the title.

With nine stops completed in the season, the surfers will next compete at the JBay Open in South Africa from July 11-20, as the competition continues to heat up in the World Surf League. The excitement builds as athletes prepare for the next challenge in their quest for the championship.