RANGIROA, Tahiti, French Polynesia (Thursday, 20 February, 2025) - The World Surf League (WSL) Hawaii/Tahiti Nui Qualifying Series (QS) returns to Tahiti for the Air Tahiti Rangiroa Pro, a men's QS 1000, beginning March 3 through 7. This marks the final event of the men's Hawaii/Tahiti QS season to determine who will secure their place among the 2025 Challenger Series. The Tahitian Surfing Federation brings Rangiroa's world-class reef of Avatoru to test competitors' commitment in its potential for heaving barrels.
"It's fantastic to see the Tahitian Surfing Federation join with Air Tahiti and bring this world-class wave back to our competitors," Robin Erb, WSL VP, Tours & Event said. "This event has provided some incredible moments and we're looking forward to seeing what Rangiroa has in store for 2025. A massive maururu goes out to the federation for their support of our QS competitors to determine who makes the 2025 Challenger Series and World Junior Championships."
Federation of Tahitian Surfing brings World-Class reef of Rangiroa Back
The defending event victor, now-Championship Tour (CT) rookie Jackson Bunch (HAW), earned his first QS win in 2023 and now a new winner may be crowned in 2025. With the support of the Federation of Tahitian Surfing and Air Tahiti, the region's premier contenders will vie for vital points to close out their season in pursuit of CT qualification all their own.
Located on the surrounding Tuamatos Islands, Rangiroa is the largest of the atolls that provides incredible waves - including the pristine right reef break, Avatoru, where competition is held. Now, the sixth edition of this premier event brings contenders back to prove their ability to send themselves over the ledge and also adapt to whatever the South Pacific brings to the shallow reef.
"It is with immense pride that the Tahitian Surfing Federation welcomes athletes and spectators to the 2025 Rangiroa Pro, a key event on the World Surf League Qualifying Series circuit," Tahitian Surfing Federation President Max Wasna said. "This competition brings together the best Hawaii and local surfers to take on the exceptional wave of Avatoru, a true gem of the Tuamotu Islands known for its power and perfection. Rangiroa, with its breathtaking scenery and unparalleled lagoon, embodies the very essence of Polynesian surfing: a unique blend of performance, respect for the ocean, and culture."
"We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners, the Rangiroa community, the volunteers, and, of course, all the athletes who make this event a success year after year. Your passion and dedication continue to elevate Polynesian surfing on the international stage."
2023 event runner-up, Mihimana Braye (FRA) will return to home waters for a chance at redemption. - WSL / Abraham Christophe
All-important Conclusion to Men's Hawaii/Tahiti Nui QS season awaits
In 2020 and 2023, this event provided the epic conclusion to the men's Hawaii/Tahiti Nui QS season and now returns as the pinnacle of 2025 Challenger Series qualification. With the women's Challenger Series contenders already qualified, it all comes down to Rangiroa to see who will join them on the world stage toward 2026 CT qualification.
Current rankings leader Shion Crawford (HAW) looks to hold the No. 1 spot and earn back-to-back Hawaii/Tahiti Nui QS Regional titles. But, an elite field including 2023 event runner-up Mihimana Braye (FRA), recent The Hawaiian Islands HIC Haleiwa Pro victor Joshua Moniz (HAW), Tahiti's own proven chargers Tereva David (PYF), Turo Ariitu (PYF), and more are ready to vie for Rangiora glory.
Watch Live The Air Tahiti Rangiroa Pro QS 1000 holds a competition beginning March 3 through 7 at Rangiroa, Tahiti, French Polynesia. Once called ON, the event will be broadcast on www.WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL App and WSL Youtube channel.