(Reuters) – On Sunday, surfing world champion Filipe Toledo announced that he would be taking a break from the 2024 professional world tour for mental health reasons. The 28-year-old Brazilian, who has won two world championships, cited the toll that competing at the highest level has taken on him over the past decade as the reason for his decision.
Toledo, known for being the fastest surfer in the world and for his exceptional surfing skills, has been a dominant force in the sport in recent years. He has been a key member of the “Brazilian Storm”, a group from Brazil who have won seven of the nine most recent men’s championships.
However, Toledo has faced criticism for his sometimes timid approach in challenging waves, especially on his backhand. At the recent season opener at Pipeline, he finished in last place and then withdrew from the contest due to food poisoning.
Despite his decision to take a break from the 2024 world tour, Toledo has qualified for the Brazilian team for the Paris Olympics, although his statement did not address his plans for the event.
Following his withdrawal, Morocco’s Ramzi Boukhiam will take Toledo’s place in the world tour field, as the tour will be reduced by a third after five events of the nine-stop tour.
In his statement, Toledo expressed his passion for the sport but emphasized the need for time off to fully recover in order to come back stronger. He also thanked his fans for their understanding and support and wished his fellow competitors a great CT season ahead.
Toledo has been granted a wildcard to compete in the World Surf League’s 2025 season, signaling his intention to return to competition after his mental health break. He reassured his fans that he will be watching the upcoming season and promised to be back stronger than ever the following year.
“I hope my fans around the world understand this decision and will stick with me when I return to the tour next year. I wish my fellow competitors a great CT season ahead. I will be watching!” he said.
Reporting by Lincoln Feast in Sydney; editing by Clare Fallon
