The WSL Wildcard Dilemma: Beyond Carissa Moore, Who Shapes the Future of Women’s Surfing?
The return of a legend like Carissa Moore to the Championship Tour is undeniably a seismic event. But her guaranteed 2026 wildcard spot doesn’t solve the bigger question facing the WSL: how do you balance rewarding past achievements with supporting the evolving needs of athletes in a sport increasingly demanding both physical and mental resilience? The WSL’s decision on the remaining wildcard will set a precedent, potentially reshaping the landscape of professional women’s surfing for years to come.
The Expanding CT and the Wildcard Conundrum
In 2026, the women’s CT will grow to 24 surfers, a significant expansion. Fourteen spots will be earned through the 2025 CT rankings, seven via the Challenger Series, one through event wildcards, and crucially, two through season wildcards. This structure, while aiming for greater inclusivity, creates a complex scenario. Relegating surfers to the Challenger Series after battling mental health challenges or starting a family – as Tatiana Weston-Webb and Johanne Defay have – feels increasingly untenable. The WSL faces a delicate ethical tightrope walk.
The Case for the Veterans: Gilmore and Moore
Stephanie Gilmore’s impressive performance as a wildcard at Burleigh Heads in 2025 demonstrates she’s far from finished. Her eight World Titles command respect, and the argument for a perpetual wildcard for surfing’s ‘GOATs’ is strong. However, the WSL has already shown a willingness to grant Moore a spot, acknowledging her impact and potential for continued success. Extending that same courtesy to Gilmore, while justifiable, could be perceived as preferential treatment and diminish the opportunities for others.
Moore’s return is particularly compelling given the new CT format, which is expected to favor powerful, rail-based surfing – a hallmark of her style – and the potential for a title-deciding event at Pipeline, her home break. This strategic advantage adds another layer to the debate.
The Rising Tide: Weston-Webb, Defay, and the Future of Athlete Wellbeing
Tatiana Weston-Webb’s courageous decision to prioritize her mental health resonated deeply within the surfing community. Her subsequent announcement of a pregnancy further complicates the situation. Similarly, Johanne Defay’s impressive surfing while pregnant highlights the dedication of these athletes. Forcing them to re-qualify through the Challenger Series after significant life events sends a damaging message about the sport’s values.
The WSL has an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating a genuine commitment to athlete wellbeing. Granting Weston-Webb or Defay the remaining wildcard wouldn’t just be a gesture of support; it would be a strategic investment in the long-term health and sustainability of the tour. As Weston-Webb herself has eloquently stated, prioritizing mental health is not a weakness, but a necessity.
Beyond Individual Cases: A Systemic Shift Needed
The wildcard situation isn’t just about individual athletes; it’s about the broader system. The WSL needs to consider establishing clearer criteria for wildcard selection, potentially incorporating factors beyond competitive results, such as contributions to the sport, advocacy for athlete wellbeing, and demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion. A points-based system, transparently evaluated, could mitigate accusations of favoritism.
Furthermore, the WSL should explore options for providing more robust support for athletes transitioning through major life changes, such as maternity leave or mental health breaks. This could include financial assistance, coaching support, and access to mental health resources.
The Challenger Series as a Pathway, Not a Punishment
The Challenger Series remains a vital pathway for emerging talent. However, it shouldn’t be viewed as a punitive measure for established surfers navigating personal challenges. The WSL could consider implementing a ‘protected ranking’ system, allowing athletes returning from extended breaks to maintain a certain level of seeding on the Challenger Series, increasing their chances of re-qualifying for the CT.
Ultimately, the WSL’s decision on the remaining wildcard will be a defining moment. Will they prioritize rewarding past glory, or will they embrace a more progressive approach that values athlete wellbeing and fosters a sustainable future for women’s surfing? The answer will reverberate throughout the sport for years to come.
What criteria do you think the WSL should prioritize when awarding the remaining wildcard? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
