Former world and Olympic champion, current ranking leader, Italo Ferreira, was injured while surfing in El Sunzal, several local sources told DUKE, and received more than 10 stitches in the knee area.

According to sources, a longboarder ran over the champion and somehow ended up cutting his knee.

Apparently, he was giving lessons to his partner when the accident happened.

More than one witness said the cut was deep.

The Brazilian was transferred to El Tunco where he was treated and received the stitches.

They said that since he still had a few days to go before competing (at least one and a half to two and a half days (he is in series 9 of round 2)), it remains to be seen whether he will participate.

Sources indicated that Ferreira will consult with the WSL doctor to see whether or not he will participate.