WSL: ‘Strong Potential’ for WSL Finals to Run Friday
Event Will Conclude Early at Lower Trestles Due to Haskell’s Closure
The World Surf League (WSL) announced today that there is a “strong potential” for the WSL Finals to run on Friday, September 9, at Lower Trestles in San Clemente, California. The event was originally scheduled to run from September 9-17, but will now conclude early due to the closure of nearby San Onofre State Beach (Haskell’s) following a shark attack that occurred on Wednesday, September 7.
Haskell’s Closure Impacts WSL Finals Schedule
The closure of Haskell’s has impacted the WSL Finals schedule, as the event was originally planned to be held at both Lower Trestles and San Onofre. With Haskell’s now closed, the WSL has decided to move the entire event to Lower Trestles and conclude it early.
The WSL has stated that the safety of the athletes and fans is their top priority, and they are working closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and make the best possible decision for all involved.
The WSL Finals is a major surfing competition that brings together the top 5 men and women surfers in the world to compete for the world title. The event is typically held over a period of several days, but will now be condensed into a single day due to the schedule change.
Despite the change in schedule, the WSL is confident that the Finals will be a success. The event will still feature the world’s best surfers competing for the title, and the Lower Trestles venue is expected to provide excellent waves for the competition.
WSL Statement on Haskell’s Closure
In a statement released on Wednesday, the WSL said: “We are deeply saddened by the shark attack that occurred at San Onofre State Beach yesterday. Our thoughts are with the victim and their family during this difficult time.
“The safety of our athletes and fans is our top priority, and we are working closely with local authorities to monitor the situation and make the best possible decision for all involved.
“We have decided to move the entire WSL Finals event to Lower Trestles and conclude it early. We believe this is the best course of action to ensure the safety of everyone involved.”
Surfers React to Haskell’s Closure
Several surfers have reacted to the closure of Haskell’s and the change in schedule for the WSL Finals.
World No. 1 surfer Gabriel Medina said: “It’s unfortunate that Haskell’s has been closed, but I understand the decision. The safety of the athletes and fans is the most important thing.
“I’m still confident that the Finals will be a great event at Lower Trestles. It’s a world-class wave, and I’m looking forward to competing for the world title.”
World No. 2 surfer Stephanie Gilmore said: “I’m disappointed that the Finals have been shortened, but I respect the decision of the WSL. The safety of everyone involved is paramount.
“I’m still excited to compete for the world title at Lower Trestles. It’s a great wave, and I’m confident that I can put on a good performance.”
WSL Finals Schedule (Subject to Change)
Friday, September 9
- Men’s and Women’s Quarterfinals
- Men’s and Women’s Semifinals
- Men’s and Women’s Finals
The WSL Finals will be broadcast live on WorldSurfLeague.com and ESPN.
