In the wake of a surprising exit from the 2024 Margaret River Pro, the surfing world is humming with the news: Kelly Slater, the legend, has missed the mid-year cut and found himself technically relegated from the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. But as the sun sets on one chapter, a new dawn emerges, promising adventures beyond the competitive arena.
“Retirement” seems an ill-fitting term for a man whose life has been a perpetual never ending carerer. For Kelly Slater, surfing has always been more than just a sport; it’s been a way of life, a passion, and a livelihood. While the competitive circuit may no longer be his primary focus, Slater’s journey is far from over.
Behind the scenes of the surf competitions, Slater has quietly cultivated a diverse empire of businesses, ranging from clothing lines to wave pools to lumber ventures. With over ten enterprises under his belt, Slater’s entrepreneurial spirit shows no signs of waning. These ventures will undoubtedly keep him occupied as he transitions into the next phase of his remarkable journey.
But for a man whose blood is probably salt water, retirement from competitive surfing does not equate to hanging up the board for good. Slater’s love affair with the waves will continue unabated as he embarks on a new chapter of chasing swells around the globe.
In a poignant post-heat interview, Slater alluded to the bittersweet emotions swirling within him. “It feels like the end, but the start of something else,” he reflects. “The start of the rest of life.” With 11 world titles, 56 Championship Tour victories, and a litany of records to his name, Slater’s legacy is etched in the annals of sporting history.
From his unprecedented five-year reign as world champion to his triumphs on some of the most treacherous breaks in the world, Slater’s influence transcends mere statistics. He has surfed his way into the hearts of fans worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the sport he loves.
As Slater contemplates his next move, the surfing community stands in awe of his unparalleled achievements and eagerly anticipates what the future holds. While the Championship Tour may bid farewell to one of its greatest icons, the waves beckon, promising new adventures and endless possibilities and there is always still being a wildcard in event .
