World Junior Surf Championship Set to Ignite Urbiztondo Beach
Urbiztondo Beach, Philippines, is bracing for a surge of talent as the 2025 World Surf League (WSL) World Junior Championship approaches. From January 11th to 18th, 48 of the world’s most promising surfers – all 20 years old and under – will compete for the coveted title on the renowned right-hand break. This year’s competition boasts an exceptionally deep field, representing 16 nations and showcasing the future of professional surfing.
The competitive roster is comprised of athletes who earned their spots through WSL Junior Tour rankings from seven regions. A significant portion of the draw – 16 wildcards – has been allocated to surfers who have already demonstrated their skills on the 2025 Challenger Series and Qualifying Series, adding an extra layer of competitive intensity.
Contenders for the Crown: Who to Watch in the Philippines
The men’s division is generating significant buzz around Australian standout Dane Henry. More than just a rising star, Henry is already considered one of Australia’s premier surfers, consistently pushing the boundaries with innovative maneuvers like backflips in competition. His impressive resume includes both ISA Junior and Open World Championships, a feat accomplished by only three others in history: Tom Curren, Gabriel Medina, and Jordy Smith. With mentorship from surfing legend Mick Fanning, Henry appears poised for a deep run in the championship. However, compatriots Hughie Vaughan and Lennix Smith present formidable challenges, and Indonesia’s Dylan Wilcoxen, known for his mastery of waves like Kandui, is a dark horse with undeniable potential.
World Surf League
On the women’s side, all eyes are on Sierra Kerr. A consistent threat in a variety of wave conditions, Kerr previously claimed victory at this event in 2023 (Oceanside). Despite a challenging year marked by a Lyme disease diagnosis, Kerr demonstrated remarkable resilience, competing on the Challenger Series and securing her fourth Stab High win in Sydney. Her grit and determination make her a clear favorite. However, Hawaiian surfer Vaihitimahana Inso, with her dynamic style and rail prowess, is a serious contender. Adding to the excitement, Championship Tour surfer Bella Kenworthy will also be competing for the title.
Cait Miers/World Surf League
What does it take to overcome adversity and perform at the highest level? How will the unique conditions at Urbiztondo Beach influence the competition?
2025 WSL World Junior Championships: Regional Representatives
Here’s a breakdown of the surfers representing each WSL region:
- Africa: Connor Slijpen (RSA), Emily Jenkinson (RSA), Ben Esterhuyse (RSA), Anastasia Venter (RSA)
- Asia: Ikko Watanabe (JPN), Anon Matsuoka (JPN), Riki Sato (JPN), Sumomo Sato (JPN)
- Australia/Oceania: Dane Henry (AUS), Isla Huppatz (AUS), Willem Watson (AUS), Stella Green (AUS)
- Europe: Alfonso Suarez (ESP), Maria Salgado (POR), Conor Donegan dos Santos (ESP), Carla Morera de la Vall (ESP)
- Hawaii/Tahiti Nui: Oliver Zietz (HAW), Skai Suitt (HAW), Kingston Panebianco (HAW), Vaihitimahana Inso (HAW)
- Latin America: Rickson Falcão (BRA), Catalina Zariquiey (PER), Ryan Kainalo (BRA), Luara Mandelli (BRA)
- North America: Will Deane (USA), Zoey Kaina (USA), Nadav Attar (ISR), Reid Van Wagoner (USA)
Pat Nolan/World Surf League via Getty Images
Wildcard Entries Add to the Excitement
The following surfers have earned wildcard entries into the competition:
- Winter Vincent (AUS)
- Sierra Kerr (AUS)
- Keoni Lasa (EUK)
- Bella Kenworthy (USA)
- Lucas Cassity (MEX)
- Annette Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)
- Hughie Vaughan (AUS)
- Laura Raupp (BRA)
- Gabriel Klaussner (BRA)
- Arena Rodriguez (PER)
- Lennix Smith (AUS)
- Janire Gonzalez Etxabarri (EUK)
- Lukas Skinner (GBR)
- Mirai Ikeda (JPN)
- Dylan Wilcoxen (IDN)
- Talia Swindal (USA)
Philippines Wildcards: Troy Espejon (PHL), Mara Lopez (PHL), Toby Espejon (PHL), Cathleya Casals (PHL)
Aaron Hughes/World Surf League via Getty Images
Related: Who’s the Next Big Surf Star? Rip Curl’s ‘Dunno’ May Have Answers
Related: Watch: 5 Surfers Lay Down Techno Tracks in Indonesia
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 WSL World Junior Championship
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What is the WSL World Junior Championship?
The WSL World Junior Championship is an annual event that crowns the world’s best male and female surfers aged 20 and under. It’s a crucial stepping stone for aspiring professional surfers.
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Where exactly is Urbiztondo Beach located?
Urbiztondo Beach is located in San Juan, La Union, on the western coast of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It’s a popular surfing destination known for its consistent right-hand point break.
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How do surfers qualify for the WSL World Junior Championship?
Surfers qualify based on their rankings from the seven WSL Junior Tour regions. Wildcards are also awarded to surfers with strong performances on the Challenger Series and Qualifying Series.
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Who are some of the top contenders in the men’s division?
Dane Henry of Australia is widely considered a favorite, but other strong contenders include Hughie Vaughan, Lennix Smith, and Indonesia’s Dylan Wilcoxen.
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What challenges might the surfers face at Urbiztondo Beach?
Surfers may encounter varying wave conditions, from powerful swells to smaller, more playful waves. Adapting to the local conditions and navigating the competition format will be key to success.
The 2025 WSL World Junior Championship promises to be a thrilling showcase of emerging talent. With a diverse field of competitors and the stunning backdrop of Urbiztondo Beach, this event is set to captivate surf fans worldwide.
Share this article with your fellow surf enthusiasts and let us know in the comments who you think will take home the title!
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