Australian Stephanie Gilmore found the motivation and focus she hadn't had all year in the perfect waves of Mexico. She surfed like she did when she won her seven world titles, exuding grace and fluidity, having fun and attacking the waves with power and radicalism.

In the grand final she found a great opponent in Malia Manuel, but the judges paid more for her fluidity and power. On her best forehand she received an 8,5 which she backed up with a 7,33 to add 15,83, which was just half a point higher than the 15,27 of the Hawaiian (8,27+7).

The Australian was deeply affected by her defeat at the Olympic Games against Bianca Buitendag. She said that the defeat hurt her like no other, even though it was a friend of hers.

That adverse result seems to have given him back his motivation and joy; after confirming his victory he laughed and celebrated for minutes before leaving the water.

It was the 32nd victory in 14 seasons for the Australian who already has seven world titles.

With this result he moved up to 4th place and will begin his Lowers Finals campaign from heat 1.