Criticism of the WSL’s location choice
The World Surf League’s (WSL) decision to host the 2025 Championship Tour in Abu Dhabi has sparked significant criticism from various corners of the surfing community. Many have questioned the rationale behind selecting a location that is not traditionally associated with world-class surf conditions. Critics argue that the WSL’s choice prioritises commercial interests over the integrity of the sport, with some suggesting that the decision was driven more by financial incentives and partnerships than by the quality of the waves or the cultural significance of the location to the surfing world.
Among the most vocal detractors are those who feel that the WSL is straying from its roots by choosing venues that do not align with the core values of the sport. The Championship Tour has historically been held in iconic surf destinations such as Hawaii, Australia, and Tahiti, where the natural environment and surf culture are deeply intertwined. By opting for Abu Dhabi, a city known more for its luxury developments and desert landscapes than its surf breaks, the WSL is seen by some as diluting the authenticity of the competition.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of holding a major surfing event in a region with limited natural surf resources. Critics argue that the construction of artificial wave pools or other infrastructure to accommodate the event could have long-term consequences for the local ecosystem. This has led to further accusations that the WSL is prioritising short-term gains over sustainability and environmental stewardship, values that many surfers hold dear.
For many, the decision to hold the tour in Abu Dhabi represents a broader shift in the WSL’s approach, one that places a greater emphasis on expanding the sport’s global reach at the expense of its traditional identity. While the league has defended its choice by highlighting the potential to introduce surfing to new audiences, this has done little to quell the growing discontent among purists who believe that the sport’s most prestigious events should be held in locations that reflect its rich heritage and connection to nature.
Concerns over Abu Dhabi’s suitability for surfing
One of the primary concerns raised by critics is the suitability of Abu Dhabi as a location for a world-class surfing event. The region is not known for its natural surf breaks, and the lack of consistent, high-quality waves has led many to question whether it can provide the conditions necessary for a fair and competitive Championship Tour. Unlike traditional surf destinations such as Pipeline in Hawaii or Bells Beach in Australia, Abu Dhabi’s coastline does not offer the kind of powerful, challenging waves that are typically associated with the sport’s elite competitions.
To address this, it is widely speculated that the WSL may rely on artificial wave technology to create the conditions needed for the event. While wave pools have become increasingly popular in recent years, they remain a controversial topic within the surfing community. Purists argue that surfing is inherently tied to the unpredictability and raw power of the ocean, and that artificial waves cannot replicate the unique challenges posed by natural surf breaks. For many, the idea of holding a Championship Tour event in a controlled environment undermines the very essence of the sport.
Furthermore, the extreme heat and arid climate of Abu Dhabi raise additional concerns about the practicality of hosting a major outdoor event in the region. With temperatures often soaring above 40°C during the summer months, there are fears that the conditions could pose health risks to both athletes and spectators. While the WSL may schedule the event during cooler months or take measures to mitigate the heat, the overall suitability of the location remains a contentious issue.
Another point of contention is the cultural disconnect between Abu Dhabi and the global surfing community. Surfing has long been associated with a laid-back, beach-centric lifestyle, and many feel that the glitzy, urbanised environment of Abu Dhabi is at odds with the sport’s ethos. Critics argue that the location lacks the deep-rooted surf culture that is so integral to the identity of the Championship Tour, and that this could detract from the overall experience for both competitors and fans.
Reactions from Tyler Wright’s family and fans
Tyler Wright, a two-time world champion and one of Australia’s most prominent surfers, has not publicly commented on the WSL’s decision to hold the 2025 Championship Tour in Abu Dhabi. However, her family and fans have been vocal in their disapproval, expressing concerns that the choice of location is out of step with the values that Wright has championed throughout her career. Known for her advocacy on issues such as environmental sustainability and social justice, Wright’s supporters have questioned how the WSL’s decision aligns with these principles.
Wright’s brother, Owen Wright, a former professional surfer himself, has been one of the most outspoken critics. In a recent interview, he expressed disappointment with the WSL’s direction, stating that the decision to hold the event in Abu Dhabi “feels like a step backwards” for the sport. He emphasised that surfing is about more than just competition—it’s about a connection to nature and the ocean, something he believes is missing from the Abu Dhabi location. “It’s hard to see how this fits with the spirit of surfing,” Owen said, echoing the sentiments of many in the surfing community.
Fans of Tyler Wright have also taken to social media to voice their concerns, with many expressing frustration that the WSL appears to be prioritising commercial interests over the integrity of the sport. One fan wrote, “Tyler has always stood for something bigger than just winning titles. It’s disappointing to see the WSL make decisions that seem to go against everything she and so many other surfers believe in.” Another commented, “Surfing is about the ocean, the environment, and the culture that surrounds it. Abu Dhabi just doesn’t represent that.”
Many of Wright’s supporters have also pointed out the potential environmental impact of holding the event in a region that lacks natural surf breaks. They argue that the construction of artificial wave pools or other infrastructure could have negative consequences for the local ecosystem, a concern that resonates deeply with Wright’s environmentally conscious fanbase. Some have even called for a boycott of the event, urging the WSL to reconsider its decision and choose a location that better reflects the values of the surfing community.
While the WSL has yet to respond directly to the criticism from Wright’s family and fans, the growing backlash highlights the deep divide within the surfing world over the future direction of the sport. For many, the decision to hold the Championship Tour in Abu Dhabi is not just about one event—it’s about the broader question of what surfing should represent in the modern era.
concerns over Abu Dhabi as a surf destination
Abu Dhabi might be known for its luxury hotels and desert dunes, but when it comes to world-class surf, it’s not exactly top of mind. The decision to host the 2025 Championship Tour there has left many scratching their heads. After all, the UAE isn’t exactly famous for its pumping waves. Sure, they’ve got some artificial wave pools, but for a sport that thrives on nature’s unpredictability, it’s a bit like holding a fishing comp in a stocked pond.
Critics have pointed out that the Middle East’s climate and geography don’t lend themselves to the kind of surf conditions that make for exciting competition. The Persian Gulf is more known for its calm waters than the kind of swells that get surfers frothing. And while the WSL has been pushing for more global exposure, some are questioning if this is the right way to do it. After all, surfers are chasing barrels, not bathwater.
There’s also the environmental factor. The UAE’s reliance on artificial wave technology raises concerns about sustainability. With the world’s oceans already under pressure, some are wondering if this is the direction the sport should be heading. It’s a bit like trying to catch a marlin in a swimming pool – sure, it’s possible, but is it really the same?
backlash from Wright’s supporters
Tyler Wright’s supporters haven’t been shy about voicing their disapproval. Social media has been flooded with comments from fans and fellow surfers alike, many of whom are baffled by the WSL’s decision. Some have even gone as far as to call it a “sell-out move,” accusing the league of prioritising money over the integrity of the sport. It’s not just about the waves – or lack thereof – but also the cultural and environmental implications of holding a major surf event in a region not exactly known for its progressive stance on human rights.
Wright’s family has been particularly vocal, with her brother Owen Wright, a former pro surfer himself, expressing his disappointment. He’s been quoted saying that the decision feels like a step backwards for the sport, especially given the WSL’s recent efforts to promote inclusivity and equality. “It’s hard to get behind a tour stop that doesn’t align with the values we’ve been fighting for,” he said. “Surfing’s about freedom, connection to nature, and respect for the ocean – not just chasing dollars.”
Fans have echoed these sentiments, with many questioning how the WSL can justify holding an event in a place where the natural surf is virtually non-existent and the cultural landscape is so different from the laid-back, open-minded ethos that surfing is known for. One fan commented, “It’s like trying to have a BBQ without the snags – it just doesn’t make sense.”
There’s also been concern about the message this sends to young surfers. Wright has long been a role model for aspiring athletes, particularly young women, and her supporters worry that this decision undermines the values she’s stood for throughout her career. “Tyler’s always been about more than just winning comps,” one fan wrote. “She’s about standing up for what’s right, and this just doesn’t feel right.”
