Gilmore, Rip Curl sign landmark eight-year deal

Rip Curl has announced one of the biggest deals in Australian sport to date, signing eight-time world surfing champion Stephanie Gilmore in a groundbreaking eight-year, multi-million-dollar contract.

Hailing from Kingscliff in NSW, Gilmore is celebrated as one of the greatest surfers in the history of the sport and has clinched the WSL World Championship title eight times. Her style, unparalleled skill, relentless dedication, and profound passion for surfing have set her apart.

This deal comes at a pivotal moment in Gilmore’s career, as she embarks on a year-long sabbatical from professional competition to embark on “the Search” – travelling the world to feel that freedom and to discover the most exceptional waves, adventures, and experiences.

Through this deal, Rip Curl pledges unwavering support for Gilmore’s global exploration, underscoring the brand’s philosophy that the Search is a universal pursuit, resonating with surfers and searchers everywhere.

The duration and scale of the agreement underscore the magnitude of Gilmore’s influence in the sport and the confidence Rip Curl has in her continuing to build on this legacy.

Despite Gilmore being in year 17 of her illustrious career, with 34 event wins under her board, five perfect 10s and being inducted into the Surfers’ Hall of Fame, this eight-year deal signifies a long-term commitment to excellence and innovation in the surfing industry.

Her relationship with Rip Curl began in 2000 when she first signed with the brand at the age of 12 years. She then went on to win four consecutive World Championships, in 2007 (Rookie on Tour), 2008, 2009 and 2010.

“This really feels like a new era in my career. In taking a year-off my aim was to just go surfing. To reconnect with what surfing really means to me and how I can share that with the world,” Gilmore said.

“So when this opportunity came up to join The Search with Rip Curl, travelling the world, finding waves, having fun, it was the perfect alignment – there’s so much to be inspired about.”

While taking a sabbatical from full-time competition this season, Gilmore will return to the WSL Championship Tour in 2025 with her eye on more event wins and inspired performances amongst the world’s best.

“I love competing, and plan to return to the tour in 2025. After 17 years of putting on a competition jersey, it’s a big change in my schedule, but one I’m fully embracing and beyond excited about,” she said.

For more information about Rip Curl, head to ripcurl.com/au