Medina, Simmers conquer Cloud 9

SIARGAO, Philippines — Three-time world champion Gabriel Medina of Brazil and Caitlin Simmers of the United States are on Cloud 9 after their big triumphs in the first-ever World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour Philippines Pro yesterday.

Medina stamped his class at Siargao’s iconic Cloud 9 surf break, besting perennial World Title contender Jack Robinson in a titanic men’s final, 16.93-14.50.

The 32-year-old Medina packed the craziest barrel of the event to post a 9.43 on his opening wave and build a major lead against Robinson en route to his long-awaited first CT win of 2026.

Simmers, the 2024 world titlist, topped the women’s side with a 12.00-10.77 victory over world No. 2 Isabella Nichols of Australia.

It was a momentous day for Medina and Simmers, who made history as champions of the inaugural Philippines Pro competition presented by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), with the support of Surigao del Norte Gov. Robert Lyndon Barbers, General Luna Mayor Johnson Sajulga and Vice Mayor Romina Sajulga.

On his way to glory, Medina eliminated his compatriot, reigning world champ and No. 1 Yago Dora in an explosive semifinals, 15.79-13.50. Simmers won over five-time world champion Carissa Moore of Hawaii, who incurred an Interference Penalty 3 in the semis that doomed her bid.

Champs Medina and Simmers each received $80,000 while runners-up Robinson and Nichols took home  $40,000 apiece.

Third placers Dora, Ethan Ewing, Moore and Tyler Wright each pocketed $20,000.

Meanwhile, Filipino bets John Mark “Marama” Tokong and Jayuard Alciso banked $14,000.