Cover photo: WSL/Sloane

Australian Molly Picklum has just become world champion in the waves of Cloudbreak, Fiji, after winning the second and third matches against American Caroline Marks, who almost won another world title.

Picklum had a poor debut, which meant that if he wanted to win the title, the match would have to go to the third series.

Incredibly, he turned the energy around with great authority and went from losing 12,5 to 10,5 to winning 15,8 to 8,03 and 16,93 to 6,24.

Picklum's title gives the Australians their first World Cup title since Steph Gilmore won at Lowers in 2022.

"I'm speechless right now," Picklum said. "I really feel like this is the cherry on top of what I've done in my career and in my personal life, really turning things around. It's an incredible experience and something they can never take away from me, being a world champion. To achieve this after such an incredible season is something very special and something I'll remember for a lifetime. To be the undisputed, undeniable champion is something I've dreamed of, and to win like that fills my heart. I can't believe it; I'm just so grateful to have the opportunity to do what I love."

The Australian was the last champion in history to use the finals format. Starting in 2026, the circuit will return to its traditional format, with winners per season earning a greater number of points, rather than one day defining an entire season.