As the inaugural Cloud 9 event has now come to pass, one thing all surf fans will likely agree on is that it was far, far better than whatever wold have happened in Abu Dhabi. The forecast provided steady surf and the technical skill required of the new venue sent a lot of heavies home early. In the end, Gabriel Medina and Caity Simmers came out on top of the podium.

Local wildcard John Mark Tokong was a standout of the early rounds by making expert work of the four-to-six-foot-plus barrels and upping his international reputation in the process. Controversy erupted in the women’s semifinal as a priority switch developed as both Caity Simmers and Carissa Moore were paddling for a wave resulting in an interference for call for Moore and a heat win for Simmers.

The Tour now heads to Hawaii and the Lexus Pipe Masters, where the 2026 World Champions will be crowned this December.

Medina Takes 18th CT Win

Three-time WSL Champion Gabriel Medina of Brazil after winning the Philippines Pro at Cloud 9, Siargao.…