No.1 surfer Julian Wilson shoulders on at Margaret River Pro
THE man hoping to follow in Mick Fanning’s footsteps as Australia’s next world surf champion admits he is still feeling the effects of a shoulder injury which could have ended his season.
Other Sports
Don't miss out on the headlines from Other Sports. Followed categories will be added to My News.
THE man hoping to follow in Mick Fanning’s footsteps as Australia’s next world surf champion admits he is still feeling the effects of a serious shoulder injury which could have ended his season.
While Fanning bowed out of the world tour at No. 3 at last week’s Rip Curl Pro, Julian Wilson hopes to consolidate his grip on the world No.1 at the Margaret River Pro this week.
GUIDE: Can Aussies stay on top at Margaret River Pro?
SALLY FITZGIBBONS: Over the moon at Margaret River Pro
Wilson, a new father, injured his shoulder in a bike accident pre-season, won the opening leg of the world tour despite his arm feeling like a “lifeless limb’’.
He was less successful at Bells where he was knocked out of the competition won by Brazilian Italo Ferreira early.
However his 13th position was enough to see him take the No.1 ranking into Margaret River with Ferreira.
“It is still having an impact. I am at about 80 per cent,’’ Wilson said of his injured shoulder.
MARGARET RIVER PRO: Mikey Wright in, Kelly Slater out
CHEERS MICK: One last act of sportsmanship
Despite being off top form, the Sunshine Coast surfer is confident he can put his disappointing 13th place at Bells behind him.
“I can definitely regroup,’’ he said.
“It is by far he best start I have had to a year. .I’m really looking forward to West Australia.’’
Officials have called a lay day for Wednesday and Thursday but hope to start competition on Friday.