Mick Fanning knocked out of Rip Curl Pro by South African Jordy Smith

MICK Fanning has just fallen short of securing a record fifth Rip Curl Pro title after being knocked out of the event in the semi-finals by South African Jordy Smith.

Bells Rip Curl Pro 2016 Day 7. Mick Fanning turns off the bottom of a Bells wave in his Men's round 4 heat (Friday 1 April). Mick would go on to finish second in the three man heat and will now match up against fellow Australian and tour rookie Davey Cathels in round 5 for a chance at a spot in the quarter finals. Picture: Jason Sammon Friday 1 April 2016

MICK Fanning has just fallen short of securing a record fifth Rip Curl Pro title after being knocked out of the event in the semi-finals by South African Jordy Smith.

Fanning could only manage a combined total of 13.90 out of a possible 20 at Bells Beach while Smith charged into the final with a 17.17 total courtesy of a 9.00 and 8.17.

Smith has booked a showdown with Quiksilver Pro champion and current world no. 1 Matt Wilkinson who defeated in-form Brazilian Italo Ferreira.

Fanning shares the record of four Bells titles with surfing icons Mark Richards and Kelly Slater and is gunning for a record fifth title in what could possibly be his final event in Australia.

The Gold Coast surfer began the final day by cruising through his Round 5 heat against Australian compatriot Davey Cathels, posting scores of 6.83 and 7.67 to win with a combined total of 14.50 to Cathels 6.33.

Fanning backed it up by taking down American Conner Coffin, who took down Fanning and Smith in Round 4, in the quarter-final.

The 34-year-old took control with a 9.40 before backing it up with a 7.50 to beat Coffin 16.90 to 16.17 and secure a semi-final match-up against Smith.

The three-time world champion has decided to take a break from the World Surf League’s championship tour after this event. He has committed to just three events on this year’s tour.