Mick Fanning Wins J-Bay Open

Saturday, 19 July 2014, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa: In solid 6-8ft conditions, the steep walls at Jeffreys Bay served as the perfect canvas for defending world champ Mick Fanning to take on his longtime friend and occasional rival Joel Parkinson.

Parko exploded out of the gates, catching a brilliant wave on the buzzer but, unfortunately, couldn't exit the tight barrel on the inside section. Mick, who'd already surfed three heats before the 45-minute showdown, opened with a 9.0, to establish an early lead and then continued to build momentum throughout the final. Despite a valiant effort and mother nature having delivered set after set, Parko was unable to find that near-perfect score he needed.

"This is the best event on tour this year, for sure, and today is like a dream come true"

The win is Mick's third J-Bay title and second WCT event for the year, matching Gabriel Medina and Michel Bourez for most 2014 victories. He now sits third in the ratings and is in position to defend his world title.

Such epic conditions and what an amazing finale to the ASP Jeffreys Bay Open 2014. Congrats Mick!

Photo: ASP

Re-live the finals below: