Defay Makes Announcement On Instagram

Johanne Defay, French Pro Surfer, Announces Withdrawal from Hawaii WSL CT Events

Defay Makes Announcement on Instagram

Johanne Defay, a French professional surfer and Olympic athlete, has announced that she will not participate in the first two World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour (CT) events of the year in Hawaii.

Reason for Withdrawal

The 27-year-old did not provide a specific reason for her withdrawal in her Instagram post but stated, "Bummer but that's life."

Support for Other Competitors

Despite her absence, Defay expressed her support for her fellow competitors: "I will be cheering everyone."

Upcoming Events

News of Defay's withdrawal comes ahead of the opening event of the WSL CT season at the Billabong Pro Pipeline on January 29-February 10, 2023. The second event, the Hurley Pro Sunset Beach, is scheduled for February 11-23.

Tokyo Olympics

Defay represented France in surfing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and placed ninth overall. In her Instagram post, she also commemorated the 30-day countdown to the start of the Tokyo Games.

Oneill Partnership

In addition to her withdrawal announcement, Defay also announced that she has joined the O'Neill team. She expressed her excitement for the future partnership.