What Kelly says about the finals: “I’d like to see Jordy win.”

But if it's a gamble, he said: "With the number ones only having to win one series, I think it's hard to bet against any of them."

August 25 2025

Cover photo: WSL/Bielmann

“I would like to see Jordy win,” said the greatest surfer in history, Kelly Slater, when asked by the WSL about his expectations for the upcoming finals in Fiji, where he is attending with his family.

“I don't know how many more years he's going to try and get into that position. The last time he was in a position to win it was in 2010 against me; 15 years later, it's impressive that he's managed to travel so far to be able to say he's motivated again. And he had a great year… He let his guard down in the last few events but did enough early on to be there. I think it would be a great story if Jordy won, it would be one to remember,” Slater said.

But when it comes to betting on a winner, Slater explained: "With the number one seeds only having to win one series, I think it's hard to bet against any of them. I mean, if you're going to put money on it, that's where it should go."

And, being diplomatic, he added: "I kind of hate taking a chance on someone because they're all friends. I don't know if I have a favorite; it's fun to see the story of a surprise where you go through a few series to get it..."

Slater is in Tavarua, presumably invited by the WSL.

The wave forecast indicates that the event will take place on either September 2 or 3.

As usual, there was a day of incredible waves a couple of days ago, before the waiting period began.

The window runs from August 27 to September 4.