Former world surf star Julian Wilson announces bold world title comeback
One of Australia’s brightest surfing talents shocked the world when he retired three years ago. But now, at the age of 35, he has announced plans to return to competition for one last crack at a world title.
Surfing
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Olympian and former world tour surfer Julian Wilson wants to come out of retirement and compete again.
The 35-year-old Sunshine Coast surfer left the world tour in 2021 after 10 years on the circuit but wants back in.
Wilson hopes to secure a wildcard into the World Surf League’s Challenger Series and from there possibly qualify for the Championship Tour.
“This time three years ago I was sitting in a hotel quarantine room in the aftermath of my Tokyo Olympic campaign, watching my dream as a WT surfer fade away while heading home to be the best partner and dad that I could be during a very challenging time (mentally),” Wilson said.
“I don’t regret my decision for a second and I love my wife and family to bits.
“Nothing in life compares to a healthy relationship at home and the opportunity to raise a family.
“The past six months I’ve had competing firmly at the forefront of my mind. It’s time for me to give it another crack.
“My hope is to get a WSL wildcard for the 2025 challenger series.
“With the support of the sponsors that have stuck by me – JS, FCS, Sun Bum – and the exciting prospect of pushing for big results with my own brand Rivvia Projects at the nose of my board, I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“I’ll be in it for the fun of the challenge and the healthy lifestyle surfing is.
“I love surfing and I’m still too damn competitive at heart to not give it another shot.”
Originally published as Former world surf star Julian Wilson announces bold world title comeback
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