Gabriel Medina

Three World Championship titles and a levitation photograph at the Paris 2024 Olympics that became one of sport's most iconic images.

Born in São Sebastião, São Paulo, Brazil, Gabriel Medina began surfing at age nine under the guidance of his stepfather Charlie Rodrigues, who became his longtime coach. Growing up on Brazil's coast, he quickly distinguished himself in junior competitions, becoming the youngest surfer to qualify for the World Surf League Championship Tour at age 17 in 2011. Medina's breakthrough came in 2014 when he became the first Brazilian to win a World Surf League Championship, ending decades of Hawaiian and Australian dominance. He successfully defended his title in 2018 and claimed his third world championship in 2021, establishing himself as one of surfing's most consistent performers. His competitive peak years from 2014 to 2021 were marked by numerous event victories and a revolutionary approach that combined progressive aerial maneuvers with traditional power surfing. The surfer's defining moment transcended competitive achievements during the 2024 Paris Olympics at Teahupo'o, Tahiti. After completing a near-perfect wave ride, Medina launched skyward in celebration, creating what became widely regarded as one of sport's most iconic photographs. The image of him suspended in mid-air against the Tahitian backdrop captured surfing's essence and introduced the sport to global audiences on an unprecedented scale. His three WSL world titles place him among surfing's elite champions, while his influence helped establish Brazil as a dominant force in professional surfing. Medina's legacy extends beyond individual accolades to his role in transforming competitive surfing's landscape. His success opened doors for a generation of Brazilian surfers and elevated the sport's profile in South America. The combination of his technical innovation, particularly in aerial surfing, and his ability to perform under pressure in heavy water conditions established new standards for professional surfing. His impact resonates through both his championship record and the cultural moment created by his Olympic celebration, cementing his position as one of surfing's most significant figures.

Aggressive aerial maneuvers and progressive surfing

Revolutionized Brazilian surfing and inspired a generation of surfers

• WSL World Champion 3x
• Olympic competitor 2024
• Most famous surfing photograph ever
• WSL World Championship 2014
• WSL World Championship 2018
• WSL World Championship 2021