ChatGPT don’t surf… unless you’re talking about surfing the internet. Photos: WSL
The “best” surfer in the world will change according to who you’re talking to. Some would say Kelly Slater, because he’s the winningest. Some would say John John Florence, because he currently hold’s the world title. Some would say it’s the one having the most fun.
And no one is wrong, not really, because surfing is different things to different people. You know who isn’t people, though? ChatGPT. So it stands to reason that ChatGPT — that all mighty, all knowing… whatever it is — is the only truly unbiased way of deciphering the best surfer in history. But even ChatGPT knows that surfing is ethereal; a wispy idea of a “sport” or a “pastime” or whatever you think of it as. So here are the five best surfers in history, according our future overlord:
The “best” surfers in history can be subjective depending on the criteria used — competition results, innovation, or overall influence on the sport. However, there are five surfers frequently cited as the greatest, based on their dominance in competition, groundbreaking achievements, and long-lasting impact on the sport.
1. Kelly Slater
Kelly Slater, ChatGPT’s favorite surfer. Photo: WSL
- Why: Kelly Slater is often regarded as the greatest surfer of all time. His career has spanned over 30 years, and he holds a record 11 World Surf League (WSL) Championship titles, the most of any surfer. Slater revolutionized the sport with his incredible skill, adaptability, and ability to win in all conditions. He was known for his precision, style, and deep understanding of the ocean, often predicting wave patterns. He also brought surfing to a global audience and helped push the sport into mainstream culture.
- Legacy: Slater has pushed the boundaries of surfing, both in terms of performance and technology, helping to develop innovations like the “Slater Designs” surfboard. He’s also known for his contributions to environmental activism and the development of wave pools, most notably the Kelly Slater Surf Ranch.
2. Mark Richards
Mark Richards surfing at the Surf Ranch is so obviously Mark Richards surfing at the Surf Ranch. Photo: WSL//Rowland
- Why: Known as the “Wizard of Waimea,” Mark Richards is one of the most dominant surfers in history, particularly in the 1970s and early ’80s. He won four World Championships (1979, 1980, 1981, and 1982) and is credited with revolutionizing the use of the twin-fin surfboard — a design that dramatically improved maneuverability and speed on the wave. His smooth, flowing style became iconic during this era.
- Legacy: Richards’ twin-fin innovation changed the sport and set the stage for future developments in board design. He also contributed greatly to professional surfing’s emergence as a global competitive sport.
3. Tom Curren
Tom Curren, one of the most legendary competitive AND freesurfers. Photo: WSL//Cestari
- Why: Tom Curren is often regarded as the most stylish surfer to ever ride a wave. His clean, smooth style, combined with his versatility in both competition and freesurfing, made him an icon of the sport. Curren won three World Championships (1985, 1986, and 1990) and was a key figure in the evolution of modern surfing.
- Legacy: Curren’s ability to perform in all types of waves, his mastery of classic maneuvers, and his influence on the surf industry’s emphasis on style and grace continue to be highly regarded. He helped bring surfing into the “post-competitive” era with a focus on artistic expression rather than just results.
4. John John Florence
Has JJF done enough to be the “best surfer in history?” Photo:WSL//Heff
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- Why: John John Florence is one of the most accomplished and versatile surfers of the current generation. With *two World Championships (2016 and 2017), Florence has dominated the WSL Tour during the past decade. His style is fluid yet powerful, combining aerial maneuvers with impeccable barrel riding, and he has excelled in every wave type — from small beachbreaks to massive reef breaks.
- Legacy: Florence has been hailed as one of the best all-around surfers, bringing a level of innovation, athleticism, and consistency that has set him apart. His performances in both competitive settings and freesurfing have kept him at the forefront of the sport. * Chat GPT Fact Check: JJF won his third title in 2024
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5. Andy Irons
Andy Irons, your favorite surfer’s favorite surfer. Photo: WSL//Wilson
- Why: Andy Irons was a fierce competitor and one of the most exciting surfers of his era. Known for his aggressive, high-risk approach, he won three World Championships (2002, 2003, and 2004) and was Kelly Slater’s biggest rival for over a decade. Irons’ rivalry with Slater defined much of the early 2000s surf scene, and his ability to handle big, powerful waves set him apart from many of his peers.
- Legacy: Irons is remembered for his intense passion for the sport, his fearless attitude, and his devastating performances in heavy waves like Pipeline, Teahupo’o, and Sunset Beach. His untimely death in 2010 left a huge void in professional surfing, but his legacy lives on through his performances, influence, and the spirit he brought to the surf community.
Honorable Mentions:
- Laird Hamilton: A big-wave legend and pioneer of tow-in surfing, Laird revolutionized how surfers approach massive waves, especially at spots like Teahupo’o and Jaws.
- Bruce Irons: Known for his laid-back style and big-wave exploits, Bruce was part of the legendary Irons family and made a significant mark on the sport.
- Filipe Toledo: A modern icon, Toledo is known for his aerial prowess and consistency on the World Tour, pushing the limits of what’s possible in competitive surfing.
