Australia Claims Team Gold at 2025 ISA World Surfing Games
LA BOCANA, EL SUNZAL, EL SALVADOR – Dane Henry spearheaded Australia’s charge to a dominant team victory on the final day of the 2025 ISA world Surfing Games, securing gold in the men’s competition and propelling his nation to the overall team championship. The win marks Australia’s first World Surfing Games team gold in 14 years, adding to a successful year for the country’s surfing program following their 2024 junior team triumph, also hosted in El Salvador.
This victory is particularly meaningful as it underscores Australia’s resurgence in international surfing and positions its athletes favorably heading into future competitions, including potential Olympic qualification events. the ISA World Surfing Games serve as a crucial platform for national teams to showcase their talent and earn points towards Olympic berths. For Henry, the gold medal comes while he simultaneously holds the junior world championship, cementing his status as a rising star in the sport.
Henry’s performance at La Bocana was characterized by powerful aerial maneuvers and precise carving, culminating in a winning heat total of 18.17. His standout rides included an 8.67 for a rotation and a 9.50 for a lengthy right-hand wave, securing his win on September 14th. France’s Olympic champion,Kauli Vaast,claimed silver,while australian Morgan Cibilic rounded out the podium with a bronze medal.
“I’m super proud of my team,” Vaast stated after the competition. “Team France was amazing this year. [Our motto] was ’never give up’, and no one did until the end. I was stoked to represent France this year, and next year we will win!”
Australia’s medal haul was further bolstered by Sally Fitzgibbons, who earned a bronze medal in the women’s competition. The team’s sixth overall gold at the World Surfing Games signifies a new era for Australian surfing, built on the strength of both established veterans and emerging talents like Henry.
