Photo: Marcello Zedde will be Zimbabwe's first representative at a World Cup  

The ISA confirmed Zimbabwe's federation as a member of the International Surfing Association, the organization said in a statement sent to the press.

Zimbabwe thus becomes the 120th member country of the ISA and the 21st in Africa.

“Zimbabwe’s membership also has a notable connection to the Olympic movement. Kirsty Coventry, president of the International Olympic Committee and one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated athletes, served as ISA vice president for several years, forging a significant link between Zimbabwe and the world of surfing,” the statement explained.

With this membership, they hope the country will debut in the youth world championship that will take place in El Salvador, with Marcello Zedde.

“Although Zimbabwe has no direct access to the ocean, many Zimbabwean surfers live and compete abroad, training regularly in neighboring countries such as Mozambique and South Africa. Furthermore, a river wave on the Zambezi River offers a unique opportunity to surf on home soil. The connection between Zimbabwe and the ISA was established through the efforts of Zimbabwean surfer Marcello Zedde and his father Mario, both based in South Africa, who sought a way for their home country to have representation on the international stage,” they added.

The surfer will be able to represent the country as a member of the Zimbabwe Rowing Association (RAZ).

"We welcome Zimbabwe with open arms and are excited to see Zimbabwean surfers representing their country on the international stage. The journey has just begun, and we can't wait to see where it takes them," said Fernando Aguerre.

Meanwhile, RAZ President Andrew Lorimer stated: "A sincere thank you to the International Surfing Association for allowing Zimbabwe, through the Zimbabwe Rowing Association, to become its 120th member and for the warm welcome to the global surfing family."