Layne Beachley lauds Steph Gilmore after seventh world title

Australian surfing legend Layne Beachley has delivered a glowing tribute to surfer Stephanie Gilmore, claiming she is “extremely proud” of her former protege after she matched her record of seven elite world crowns in Hawaii.

Australian surfing legend Layne Beachley has delivered a glowing tribute to surfer Stephanie Gilmore, claiming she is “extremely proud” of her former protege after she matched her record of seven elite world crowns in Hawaii.

Only American Kelly Slater, who is due to retire from the men’s world tour after the Pipe Masters in December has won more with 11 crowns.

“When Steph commits her mind to a task it takes something monumental to stop her,” Beachley said after an early exit from the Maui Pro by American Lakey Peterson secured Gilmore the world tile on Tuesday.

Stephanie Gilmore on her way to winning a record-equalling seventh world title. Picture: WSL/Sloane

“I congratulate Lakey for putting up a terrific fight while demonstrating the courage and conviction to achieve greatness.

“2018 was Steph’s year, she is just too good. Exuding joy, naturally talented, and fiercely focused, the smiling assassin has done it again.

“Seven world title wins establishes her as one of the greatest athletes of all time! No one deserves it more than Steph and I am extremely proud of her.

“Success cannot be built on that which has not been celebrated and I can’t wait to shower her in congratulations and celebrations when we both collect our latest world title trophies at the WSL crowning in March 2019.”

Layne Beachley has showered Steph Gilmore with praise after she equalled the surfing legend’s title record. Picture: Adam Yip

Beachley recently won a world title at the world Masters to add to the seven elite world crowns she won between 1998-2003 and in 2006.

“Winning my eighth world title at the WSL Masters in September this year enables me to maintain a slender step ahead of her but based on Steph’s current focus, performance and competitive spirit its only a matter of time before she matches me then smashes me,” Beachley said.

“Irrespective of competition results, Steph is a beautiful girl both inside and out who deserves all the success she creates. “

Stephanie Gilmore celebrates her world title win on Tuesday. Picture: WSL/Cestari

Beachley in 2006 gave Gilmore a wildcard entry into her own world tour event, an invitation which helped launch Gilmore’s career which started on a high note with her first world title in 2007 in her rookie year.

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