MARGARET RIVER, Australia —The world’s top surfers are preparing to descend on the iconic breaks of Western Australia as the seventh stop of the 2025 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour—the Margaret River Pro—gets underway. With elite athletes vying for supremacy and wildcards ready to challenge the rankings, the competition promises high-stakes drama in the water.
As anticipation builds, the WSL has confirmed a lineup that includes both Tour regulars and standout wildcard entries. These wildcards, selected for their exceptional performance and surfing ability, are set to make waves of their own—often stepping in to replace injured or unavailable surfers.
“Wildcards aim to win heats and shake up the power dynamics on Tour,” the WSL stated. Like Tour athletes, wildcards are judged by the same scoring standards. Though competing as a wildcard is no easy task, it presents a rare chance to outperform the sport’s biggest names.
Meet the Wildcards at Margaret River Pro
Several top-tier wildcards will be joining the field in Margaret River, either as injury replacements or event invitees. According to the WSL, the wildcard roster includes:
- Nadia Erostarbe, replacing Johanne Defay
- Bronte Macaulay, replacing Tatiana Weston-Webb
- Ian Gentil, replacing Gabriel Medina
- Winter Vincent, replacing Ramzi Boukhiam
- Mikey McDonagh, competing as the official event wildcard
- Jacob Willcox, returning to compete on home turf
- Willow Hardy, one of Australia’s rising young surf stars
Each of these surfers brings a unique style and strategic approach, and their presence is expected to raise the competitive bar. For many, this is a critical opportunity to challenge the established names and possibly earn their place on the Championship Tour in future seasons.
The Western Australia Margaret River Pro is known for its powerful surf and unpredictable conditions. As the competition window opens, fans can expect explosive performances, tight heats, and perhaps a few upsets—especially from the determined wildcard surfers ready to seize their moment.
With the 2025 Championship Tour heating up, the Margaret River Pro may prove to be a turning point in the season—where rankings shift, reputations are tested, and new names break through.