Former 5x CT event winner and Tokyo Olympian Julian Wilson is planning a comeback to competitive surfing and hopes to gain a wildcard for next year’s Challenger Series in order to have a crack at making the tour once again.
The regular-footed Australian finished world number two in 2018 but has not competed in the big leagues since stepping away in 2021 to focus on his family and building his newly found brand – Rivvia Projects. However, it appears he has a relit fire to take on the world’s best again.
In a post on Instagram, Julian wrote: “This time three years ago I was sitting in a hotel quarantine room in the aftermath of my Tokyo Olympic campaign, watching my dream as a WT surfer fade away while heading home to be the best partner and Dad that could be during a very challenging time (mentally).
“I don’t regret my decision for a second and I love my wife and family to bits. Nothing in life compares to a healthy relationship at home and the opportunity to raise a family.
“The past 6 months I’ve had competing firmly at the forefront of my mind. It’s time for me to give it another crack. My hope is to get a WSL wildcard for the 2025 challenger series.
“With the support of the sponsors that have stuck by me JS, FCS, sunbum and the exciting prospect of pushing for big results with my own brand Rivvia Projects at the nose of my board I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“I’ll be in it for the fun of the challenge and the healthy lifestyle surfing is. I love surfing and I’m still too damn competitive at heart to not give it another shot.”
While the likes of Medina, Griffin, Ramzi and other tour surfers expressed their support for Jules on Instagram, they’ll all be eagerly looking over their shoulder to see how Wilson does on the CS in 2025, if he is granted a wildcard. Despite being 35, there is no doubt Jules’ aerial repertoire and all round game is still good enough to mix it with the world’s best.
