It was a glorious day for Australian surfing as Steph Gilmore and Ethan Ewing claimed victory in front of the roaring Gold Coast masses. After disappointing finishes in the first two events, both Steph and Ethan needed a good result. For Steph it validated a comeback at age 38 and confirmed she could still mix it with the next generation of surfers – twenty one years after her first triumph at Snapper Rocks in 2005. For Ethan Ewing, the result catapulted him into the world title race he deserves to be a part of. It was also a win for the WSL who had been wave-starved on the Australian leg until Snapper reeled for four days straight.
Tracks caught up with Steph and Ethan in the wake of their stunning victories.
Steph Gilmore
In those high-pressure moments, do you ever think back to when you were younger surfing at home? Does that help ground you?
For me, it’s more about gratitude. Even during the final or any heat, I’d paddle back out and not even think about the scores – I didn’t know what I got or what Luana needed. I’d just look back at the beach and feel in awe of the opportunity to compete in front of that crowd.
That feeling of gratitude really puts me in a positive mindset. It helps me stay present and focused. If something goes wrong, it’s okay – just a small mistake. You paddle back out, wait for the next wave and keep going.
Being at home definitely helps, but surfing itself is special. The ocean is such a spiritual place. Compared to other sports – like tennis, golf, or basketball – we’re lucky. The ocean naturally gives you that sense of calm and clarity. It’s something we can tap into whether we’re competing or free surfing. That’s what makes surfing so unique.
Did you learn anything during your time off that surprised you?
Not really – I kind of expected how I’d feel. I knew I’d take time off and then feel jealous watching the other women compete. I could see the level rising, watching them charge at Pipe and put on amazing performances and I just wanted to be part of it again.
It was almost like an ego check – realising how much I still wanted it. And in the end, that’s what I learned: I still want to compete.
There were moments where I thought about stepping away, but I’m a competitor. I love being challenged and I think that’s important – pushing yourself helps you grow. So coming back felt right.
After winning so much, what keeps you coming back? And how important is it to win here?
Did you see the crowds today? That’s a big part of it. Moments like this are incredible. You could call it once-in-a-lifetime, but as athletes, we get to experience it more often – and that’s something really special.
Paddling back out after a good wave and hearing the crowd cheering… it’s an amazing feeling. I’ve always said I love surfing – I’d do it even if no one was watching. But having thousands of people there makes it even better.
You and Luana are starting to build a bit of a rivalry, meeting again for the second time in three events. How good does it feel to get the win this time?
It’s always fun to compete against Luana – she’s been surfing incredibly well this year. She beat me at Bells, so it feels good to get one back here.
Ethan Ewing
How important is it to win at home, on the Gold Coast, and finish the Aussie Treble strong?
It’s definitely important. I feel like I have the most support here, so you really want to make the most of that, let it energise you and push you forward. It’s huge to finish the Aussie leg on a high and carry that momentum into the next part of the season.
You performed at a really high level here. What clicked in those conditions over the last few days?
I’m just really comfortable in these waves. I grew up surfing this kind of setup, so it comes pretty naturally. At the same time, things have to fall your way during the week and it felt like they did. I was able to surf on autopilot, just enjoy it, without overthinking strategy. The level was super high, but I’m stoked with how it all came together.
The first two Aussie events were tough for the local men’s side. How meaningful is it to get a win here for the fans?
It’s huge. The first two events had really challenging conditions and there’s always a bit of luck involved in that. I got a quarterfinal at Margaret River, which was solid, but overall the waves were tricky. Coming here, to waves we’ve grown up on – like Steph and I – it feels more natural. Everyone was ripping, but things went my way this week and I’m super happy to finish it like that.
After these three events, what’s your goal for 2026? And which stops are you most excited for?
The goal is definitely the world title. That’s why we do this – spending time away from family, traveling – it’s not just to make up the numbers. It’s a big challenge, but I’m ready to put in the work.
As for the tour, honestly, everywhere. I love Fiji, the people there are amazing and the waves are incredible. Teahupo’o is always special too. Every stop has its moments. I’m just trying to stay positive and do my best throughout the season.
