Stephanie Gilmore leaves Roxy for Rip Curl to Embark on a Historic Journey in Surfing

In a monumental move for professional surfing, eight-time World Surfing Champion Stephanie Gilmore has inked an eight-year multi-million dollar deal with Rip Curl, a testament to her indelible mark on the sport and a vision for the future that transcends traditional competition boundaries.

Hailing from Kingscliff, New South Wales, Gilmore is not just a champion by title but a luminary in the surfing world, celebrated for her exceptional talent, dedication, and the profound influence she has wielded over the sport throughout her illustrious 17-year career. This new partnership with Rip Curl, a brand with which she has a long-standing relationship since the age of 12, marks a significant milestone in Gilmore’s career and the broader surfing community.

The timing of this agreement is particularly poignant, as Gilmore embarks on a year-long sabbatical from professional competition to pursue “the Search,” a personal journey of discovery and adventure in search of the world’s most exceptional waves. This endeavour, supported wholeheartedly by Rip Curl, aligns with the brand’s ethos that surfing is not just a sport but a perpetual quest for freedom, adventure, and connection with the natural world.
Gilmore’s decision to take a break from competition is not a step back but a leap forward, redefining what it means to be a professional surfer. Through this partnership, she seeks to reconnect with the essence of surfing and share this journey with the world, setting a new standard for sponsorships and professional athletes’ roles in the surfing industry.

While on sabbatical, Gilmore’s spirit of competition remains undimmed, with plans to return to the elite World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour in 2025. Her aim is not just to compete but to inspire, bringing fresh inspiration and energy to the tour after a year of exploration and growth.

This ground-breaking deal is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a long-term commitment between Gilmore and Rip Curl to push the boundaries of surfing, innovation, and storytelling. As Gilmore ventures into this new era of her career, the surfing world watches with anticipation, eager to witness the fruits of this unique partnership. Gilmore’s journey with Rip Curl symbolizes a pivotal moment in the sport, promising to bring new levels of inspiration, adventure, and excellence to surfers and fans across the globe.

Image credit: Rip Curl