The world’s elite longboarders descended upon Huntington Beach for the opening day of the Lexus US Open of Surfing Presented by Pacifico, marking the beginning of another thrilling chase for the 2025 World Longboard Titles. Despite declining swell providing modest two-to-three-foot conditions, the competition showcased exceptional style and technical prowess that defines longboard surfing at its highest level.
Defending Champions Set the Tone
Taylor Jensen (USA), the four-time World Longboard Champion, demonstrated exactly why he remains at the sport’s pinnacle. His opening performance featured signature critical nose rides and powerful style, earning him a commanding 12.66 heat total. Jensen’s quest to become the first surfer to claim five WSL World Longboard Titles is off to a promising start.
“The infrastructure’s here, everything’s ready, all your friends are here, you just sort of click back in. It’s contest day. It’s Huntington,” Jensen reflected. “I’m just embracing it. I got the World Title last year. I’d love to back it up. I’d love to get number five.”
Rachael Tilly (USA) began her title defense with equal determination. After claiming her breakthrough 2024 US Open victory and subsequent World Longboard Title, Tilly opened with a solid 7.17 to advance past Crystal Hulett (RSA) and event wildcard Liv Stokes (CAN).
“Coming back to this event and now we’re starting a new Tour and coming in as first seed, it’s kind of all hitting me again,” Tilly shared. “I haven’t started the year off as the first seed since 2016. It feels really good.”
Rising Stars Make Their Mark
Chase Lieder (USA) delivered the men’s strongest Opening Round performance with a 13.74, defeating perennial World Title threat Declan Wyton (AUS). The New York native, who finished No. 8 in the world during his breakthrough 2024 season, is representing his home state with pride.
“I’m just here to have fun and take it one heat at a time. I’m representing everyone back home in New York,” Lieder stated. “Let’s go, it’s time to bring one home for the boys.”
Rogelio JR Esquievel (PHL), last year’s event runner-up, kicked off his campaign with authority, backed by enthusiastic Filipino support on the beach. He’s joined by fellow countryman and 2025 rookie Jomarie Ebueza, creating a formidable Philippine presence on tour.
Wildcards and Upsets Shape Competition
The day featured several notable upsets that will intensify Elimination Round action. Event wildcard Jack Van Wagoner (USA) stunned 2023 World Longboard Champion Kai Sallas (HAW), while Chloe Coleman(USA) impressed in her season wildcard debut, defeating experienced competitors Alice Lemoigne (FRA) and Tully White (AUS).
Chloe Calmon (BRA) marked her return to competition after a year hiatus with a convincing victory, showcasing renewed passion for the sport. “After taking a year off competing, I feel like my biggest win was to fall in love with surfing again,” Calmon explained.
Looking Ahead
With the Opening Round complete, the Elimination Round promises intense competition as former World Champions, tour veterans, and rising talents fight to keep their campaigns alive. Event organizers will reconvene Sunday, July 27, at 7:15 a.m. PT for a likely 7:35 a.m. PT start.
The blend of defending champions, maintaining form, and emerging talents making statements sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable week of longboard surfing in Huntington Beach, CA.
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