Despite a Disappointing Finish in El Salvador, Surfing Legend Kelly Slater Proves Why He Is the True Goat

The 11-time world champion, Kelly Slater remains a household name in the surfing world for over three decades now. The man is currently defined by his postponed retirement plans and continual desire to shine the brightest one final time. The most recent World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour competition witnessed him lose to Gabriel Medina at the Surf City El Salvador Pro.

Slater aspires to hold his own in every surfing championship, and has a long way to go before finding immense fulfillment. At least he strives to make it to them all, never allowing a setback to prevent him from showing up to hit the waves.

Surfing loss is a learning experience for the legendary pro surfer

Just after getting defeated by the Brazilian surfer at the El Salvador Pro, the surfer showed sportsmanship despite jeopardizing his qualification for the Paris Olympics in 2024. The surfing great appeared in an Instagram story that read, “Good time in @surfcity @wsI Thanks @kellyslater @kalanimiller.” The pictures of the duo showed Alejo Campos along with Slater standing beside him. 

The picture captured the sun hitting the surfer’s bare body making his muscles look more defined and bulky, as he held his surfboard close. “New friends, new places. Thanks for the hospitality, Gelsalvador!,” Slater said after the incident that nearly cost him a major Olympic chance. A heroic act that only a legend can maintain in the face of defeat. Slater not only shines among the waves, but he also has a heart of gold that glows brighter than all of his achievements.

Despite being close to retirement, the iconic surfer is still one of the finest surfers in the world today. Slater seems to have a long career ahead of him based on his most recent pursuits and professional successes. While the World Surf League Championship Tour continues to be his forte,  he is often seen attending invitation-only surfing contests. Being offered a chance to look forward to winning a medal at the Olympics, he hopes to win big before he quits surfing.

Slater’s many attempts to remain connected with the surfing community

The 51-year-old has attempted to be active in the surfing scene. To play in the remaining 2023 tournaments and the first half of the 2024 circuit, WSL granted him a wildcard invitation.  The dedicated surfer with 56 Championship Tour titles to his name, has won every championship conceivable since the 1990s. While the year has been professionally low for the surfer, he finds a way to reconnect offshore.

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His company Kelly Slater Wave Co. provides surfers across the world with an exceptional surfing experience. Offering the greatest experiences and services in the ideal surf environment, the business is a pioneer in surf technology. Slater’s most recent business endeavor in Abu Dhabi is already drawing desire, in addition to the news of his retirement following his crucial surf title victory.

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