World-champion surfer Mick Fanning has announced his retirement just one month before his final event.
Taking to social media on Wednesday night, the Australian champion announced he would no longer compete full time as he could no longer ‘find the motivation and dedication’ to continue competing.
‘I’ve decided the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach will be my last event as a full-time competitor on the World Surf League Championship Tour,’ he wrote.
‘The tour has given me so much but I need a fresh challenge. I still love the game but can’t find the motivation and dedication required to compete for World Titles anymore.
‘My time on tour has been incredibly rewarding and I have so many amazing memories, all of which wouldn’t be possible without some very special people…My Mum, Dad, Sister and Brothers. I love you.
‘My sponsors that have stood by me and continue to back my goals.My shaper Darren Handley and his entire team for the care and hard work they put into every single one of my boards.
‘My fellow competitors on tour, you are like brothers and sisters to me.
‘My very tight support crew that have been there in good and tough times, thank you for always being honest with me.
‘And thanks to the fans and everyone that has encouraged me and cheered me on for all these years.’
Fanning made headlines in 2015 after he punched away a shark about to attack him on live television, during a competition in South Africa.