John John Goes Back to Back

JOHN JOHN GOES BACK TO BACK

John John Florence’s run to a second World Title was an incredible display of commitment to the task of being the World Champion.  Showing up on the Gold Coast for the first event with an entirely new look, that took the surf world by storm, was impressive.  He had another gear.  Two Semis and a landmark victory at Margarets to retain the Yellow Jersey leaving Australia made his intentions clear.  Wild Card fearlessness created the first set back of the year in Brazil.  But, it only created more respect for what the World Title represents, the best at its sport.  Fiji hurt.  A second early loss in a row, at a wave that has proven to be elusive for John competitively, was alarming.  The month between events was heaven sent.  The Yellow Jersey had been relinquished, but the motivation that the annual journey to J-Bay brings was plenty to spark a second half run.  In incredible waves, a strong Quarterfinal showing was like a breath of fresh air to John.  The back half of the year was starting, Quarterfinals or bust.  Tahiti Quarters.  Trestles went one better making Semis in what could only be considered a high performance escapade.  Risk, reward.  JJF was back in form.  Semis in France, despite a frustrating loss to Medina, got him back in the Yellow Jersey for Portugal.  Another Quarterfinal in pumping Supertubos, pushing the title showdown to Pipeline.  Oh Pipeline, please provide the goods.  His second career Finals berth at his home break was enough to clinch the Title. But, the victory was snatched with a buzzer beater wave by Flores in the last minute of the heat.  When all is said and done, the two blemishes in Brazil and Fiji were thrown out and only Quarters, Semis, Runner-Up and Victory remain in John’s result tally.  59,600 points for the year, leader of the pack and Back to Back WSL Championships.  Historic. Photos by: Ryan Miller | Trevor Moran