Remember last year’s Pipeline Masters when Alejo Muniz defeated Kelly Slater and Title contender, Mick Fanning, to ensure the trophy would go to Gabriel Medina? Well, it happened, and Muniz became the second most popular surfer in Brazil for it. After all, without Muniz, it’s unlikely Gabriel would’ve had the opportunity to kiss that trophy and shave his entire body on national television. Alejo’s giant achievement, however, wasn’t enough to keep him on tour, but their might still be hope for the young Brazilian.
Alejo Muniz is back, to say the least. His victory over Davey Cathels in the explosive Final of the 2015 Ballito Pro in KwaDukuza on Sunday marks his second victory of the year. The video above, brought to you by Daniel Smorigo, shows just how on point Alejo has been in South Africa. This victory also puts Alejo at the top of the ‘QS rankings and in good position to requalify for the 2016 World Championship Tour.
Here’s what the elated Muniz had to say to the WSL following his incredible performance:
“It’s been amazing and I would like to thank everyone that came down to the beach. I want to dedicate this trophy to my brother because he’s the one that is pushing me and he’s an amazing person, so I just try to be like him, a good person and really focus on surfing. Thanks all the Brazilians that came down to support me too, and I love Ballito.”
When he heard his points now exceed the projected cutoff to qualify for the CT, Alejo responded, “That’s amazing news. I’ve been there [on the CT] for four years and it’s a dream come true for us from Brazil to be able to surf against the best, against our idols. There is a lot work to do still, but if you’re saying I’m in I believe you and thanks.”
