Opening day magic unfolded at one of the world's premier venues at Jeffreys Bay and the world's best rose to beautiful conditions. Yago Dora's momentum from Rio was palpable, posting more near-perfection to lead the surge into the Round of 16 alongside excellent showings from former event victor and current World No. 1 Filipe Toledo, World No. 2 Griffin Colapintio, and Final 5 incoming threat John John Florence. First elimination duels are locked in for the Round of 16, plus women await to get their 2023 event runs underway.