Oh, if only we could have been there! In a momentous and emotionally charged final, Jordy Smith overcame fellow South African Matthew McGillivray, securing his 7th Championship Tour victory and his first in an incredible eight years at Surf City, El Salvador!
Punta Roca, El Salvador (14 April 2025) – Against the breathtaking backdrop of Surf City, El Salvador, South African surfing roared with pride as the legendary Jordy Smith etched his name further into the history books!
Not only did Smith secure his seventh championship tour victory, but it was also his first in eight years as he overcame Matthew McGillivray in a historic all-South African showdown at the Surf City El Salvador Pro.
Even after a brief break, the fire of champions burned bright as Smith advanced through the men’s draw in impressive fashion, excelling as the waves improved in the final days of the competition.
The 37-year-old overcame American Cole Houshmand by a score of 15.67 to 10.00 in the semi-finals to book a final against fellow South African Matthew McGillivray.
The first exchanges came just moments after the horn sounded. Smith wasted no time showcasing his powerful form to post a 7.33 (out of a possible 10) over McGillivray, who fell on his opening manoeuvre.
Smith backed up his strong start and held a commanding lead heading into the back half of the final. McGillivray was able to respond and get in the heat with a 5.00, but as time dwindled, Smith found another Punta Roca wall that allowed him to showcase more of his powerful style and post a 6.93 to take the win.
Victory in the fourth event of the 2025 World Surf League season has moved Smith to fifth in the rankings, a position he’ll be hoping to maintain or improve on to ensure a place on finals day in Fiji.
Smith, whose remarkable career spans 18 years among the world’s best on the CT, said:
“I think just for South Africa in general, this means a lot. I can’t believe it, to be honest. If I could dedicate this to two people, my wife and my father. I wanted to ride my father’s board in this final and win on it, and to do it is incredible.
“I just kept telling myself you can do it, you’re going to do it. It’s just so hard to take it all, it’s been so long. I’m just happy to do it with another fellow South African. I can’t say enough good words about Matthew. He’s a long-time friend and to share a final with him is really special.”
We salute this veteran! His victory is more than just a win; it’s a symbol of perseverance and a celebration of South African camaraderie!
The next stop on the 2025 Championship Tour will be the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy.
Sources: Supplied
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