2025 Western Australia Margaret River Pro: Preview
Catch the thrilling action as the Championship Tour hits Margaret River, a surfer's paradise with powerful waves. With mid-year cuts on the line, Monsters' surfers are ready for the challenge from May 17-27!
"West is best" is the cliché often heard on the webcast this week as the Championship Tour reaches stop No. 7 at Margaret River, Western Australia. And they're not wrong—it's where dedicated surfers truly feel at home. With its raw, rugged landscape and a variety of powerful, empty waves, the contest at Main Break—a dynamic A-frame similar to Sunset Beach—reveals every technical flaw.
This is the final stop before the tour narrows down to the top 22 men and top 10 women, making it even tougher for the 21 surfers left behind. The WSL announced this is the last mid-year cut, so careers are at stake. Waves await, and the Monster team is ready! The 2025 Western Australia Margaret River Pro runs from May 17-27. Watch it on worldsurfleague.com and cheer the Monster crew!
Monster Threats
Filipe Toledo: After dominating Burleigh, Filipe’s precision rail game is primed for Main Break’s meaty walls. He’s hunting the Final 5.
Yago Dora: While the rest of the field looks right, world No. 2 Yago could be a dangerous threat on Main Break’s lefts.
Ethan Ewing: No. 5 globally, Ethan’s surgical power fits Margaret’s demanding canvas. A podium finish keeps him in the title race.
Seth Moniz: Sitting No. 13, Seth’s fluid style and aggressive approach must deliver to lock in his 2026 spot.
Al Cleland Jr.: Currently sitting at No. 21, the rookie sits dangerously close to the cut. However, WA’s power is perfectly suited for Al’s surfing. Expect a clutch performance.
Crosby Colapinto: Our only team rider sitting below the cut line (largely due to missing two events because of injury), Crosby needs a big result at Margs to secure his place on the 2026 tour.
Bettylou Sakura Johnson: Her first CT win at Burleigh launched her to No. 6. Bettylou’s powerful forehand, honed in Hawaii’s raw energy, could match Margaret’s heavier sections.
Three Questions
What’s the forecast look like? Head-to-overhead waves to start the comp, then it eases, then jumps. A big swell and clean conditions could close the show.
What happens if someone doesn’t make the cut? The WSL shrinks the field to 22 men and 10 women post-Margaret River. Miss it, and you’re relegated to the Challenger Series (unless a wildcard saves you).
Why’s this the last cut ever? The WSL ditched the mid-season cut for 2026 after feedback it rushed early-season stakes. This is the final axe.
