The Best Waves and Rides of the 2025 Nazaré Big Wave Challenge

The 2025 Nazaré Big Wave Challenge brought fierce competition to Portugal’s Praia do Norte, where surfers tackled waves up to 35 feet tall.

Organized by the World Surf League (WSL) and sponsored by TUDOR, the event tested athletes with strong winds and choppy conditions.

Teams relied on teamwork, jet ski skills, and quick decision-making to ride the massive waves.

Winners Rise Above Challenges

French surfer Clement Roseyro claimed the Men’s Best Performance Award, scoring 21.83 points.

Partnering with Portugal’s Nic von Rupp, the duo also won the Best Team Performance Award.

Roseyro credited their success to teamwork: “Nic taught me jet ski skills, and we push each other.” Von Rupp added, “We trained hard this year. Last season, we should’ve won—this makes it sweeter.”

Brazil’s Lucas Chianca, a past champion, took second place, while Scotland’s Ben Larg surprised as a last-minute replacement, finishing third.

Larg impressed with sharp turns on steep waves, proving his skill in “tow-in” surfing—where a partner uses a jet ski to pull a surfer into position.

Women’s Division Highlights

France’s Justine Dupont returned after having her first child, riding eight waves with bold lines.

“Motherhood shifted my focus,” she said. “I worry about my baby now, not fear.”

Her teammate Eric Rebiere struggled, catching only one wave. Brazil’s Michelle des Bouillons took second, guided by partner Ian Cosenza.

British newcomer Laura Crane also stood out, towing Portugal’s Antonio Laureano into large waves.

Conditions Test Limits

Strong winds created uneven wave faces, forcing surfers to adapt. Brazil’s Pedro Vianna, last year’s team winner, noted, “Choosing the right waves was key—it wasn’t easy.”

Many wiped out but stayed persistent, aiming for high-scoring rides.

The event showcased Nazaré’s reputation as a big-wave hotspot, blending danger and skill. As Roseyro put it, “It’s about trust—in your team and your instincts.” With thrilling rides and close calls, the 2025 challenge proved why this location remains a ultimate test for surfers worldwide.

Footage: Red Bull