Australian Molly Picklum Wins First World Surfing Title in Fiji

Molly Picklum clinched her first world surfing title after an intense best-of-three final against American Caroline Marks at the World Surf League Finals in Fiji. Despite losing the first heat, Picklum rallied with commanding scores of 15.83 and 16.93 in the subsequent heats to secure victory. The 22-year-old Australian endured a grueling day, with Marks competing in six heats before tiring, which Picklum capitalized on at the challenging Cloudbreak reef. Picklum's triumph continues Australia's strong legacy in women's surfing, following champions like Stephanie Gilmore and Layne Beachley. Her consistent performance throughout the season, including two tour event wins, culminated in this breakthrough moment. Meanwhile, the men's title was won by Brazilian Yago Dora, highlighting Brazil's dominance with six of the last seven men's world titles.