Wednesday was a historic day for surfing and a watershed moment for the history of competitive sport. In a statement and press conference, the World Surf League announced it would become the first U.S.-based global sports league to institute equal prize money for men and women. The move was celebrated widely across social media, and we wanted to share with you some of our favorite reactions:
Lakey Peterson:
“Incredibly honored to be a part of this sport and where it is going. Today @wsl announced equal pay for the men and women starting in 2019. Thank you for believing in us and inspiring us to become the best we can be! We have come a long way! The future is bright.”
Kelly Slater:
“It’s an honor to take part supporting the WSL in announcing prize money pay equality for men and women in surfing. It’s awesome that they’ve taken it upon themselves to step up and make this statement for the collective group. I’m convinced that men want to rule the world to try and impress women! But it’s easier and more flattering to start by treating them as our equals in the workplace. It’ll be interesting to hear people’s comments regarding the topic. I believe it’s a great precedent to set in sports and challenges what has been the norm. My brothers and I were raised predominantly by our mom on a small weekly paycheck so it’s refreshing to set an example as a sport for what should be the norm, and not the exception, in society. #CatchThisWave is the hashtag. Join in the conversation!”
Keala Kennelly:
“YESSSSSSS! 🙌🏽 I have fought for this for my entire career and didn’t know if I would see it happen in my lifetime. Bravo 👏🏼 @wsl”
Carissa Moore:
“Today the @wsl announced equal pay for men and women in 2019. What a monumental day for the sport of surfing and women 🙊🤗 Thank you to Dirk, Natasha and everyone @wsl for giving us this opportunity and for believing in us.”
Tatiana Weston Webb:
“Wow, today the @wsl announced that Women’s pay is now equal to the Men’s. What a privilege to be a part of a company that is continuously pushing the boundaries for not only surfing but all Sports. Thank you, Natasha, Dirk, Sophie, and @jessmileydyer for making a dream of many young talented women come true. Proud to be a Female Surfer :)”
Sachi Cunningham:
“Couldn’t be happier to see this announcement today by the @wsl that all athletes will be paid equal prize money regardless of gender!!! This is a history-making moment in the world of professional sports with the WSL being the only sport worldwide making pay equity a reality. Thank you @biancavalenti @paigealms @kealakennelly @andreamollermaui The Committee for Equity in Women’s Surfing @sabrinarjbrennan @karentynan, WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt @jessmileydyer and all those working behind the scenes to make this happen!!! Equity in the waves will surely make waves elsewhere in the world. 🙏🏽💪🏽👏🏽🙌🏽🏄🏾♀️🏄🏿♂️💙 YES!!!”
