Who Is Molly Picklum? The No.1 Ranked Female Surfer Redefining Women’s Surfing
Molly Picklum has become a name synonymous with modern surfing excellence. The 22-year-old Australian from the Central Coast of New South Wales is not only one of the youngest talents to dominate the sport but also the No.1 ranked female surfer in the world. Her rise from local surf competitions to winning world titles has made her one of the most exciting athletes on the World Surf League (WSL) circuit.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on November 26, 2002, in Gosford, Australia, Molly grew up surrounded by the ocean. She began surfing as a child, showing an early mix of passion and natural ability. By her mid-teens, she had already claimed back-to-back Australian Junior Titles in 2018 and 2019, signaling that she was destined for greatness. In 2020, she was named the Australian Rising Star in surfing — a title that foreshadowed her incredible career ahead.
After turning professional, Picklum qualified for the WSL Championship Tour in 2022, marking her arrival at the elite level. Competing among the best surfers in the world, she quickly proved that she was not just a rising star — she was a serious contender for the world title.
Rising Through the Ranks
Picklum’s breakthrough came in 2023 when she won the Hurley Pro Sunset Beach event in Hawaii, her first major WSL Championship Tour victory. Later that year, she became the first woman to score a perfect 10 at Pipeline, one of the most iconic and dangerous waves in surfing. These achievements cemented her reputation as a fearless competitor capable of thriving in any condition.
In 2025, she made history by winning the WSL World Championship Finals in Fiji, defeating top-ranked rivals to secure her first world title. Her combination of power, balance, and technical precision has drawn comparisons to surfing greats like Stephanie Gilmore and Carissa Moore.
Style, Strength, and Legacy
Molly Picklum’s surfing is defined by controlled aggression and adaptability. She excels in both heavy reef breaks and small-wave conditions, showing versatility that keeps her ahead of the pack. Off the board, she’s grounded and passionate about inspiring the next generation of surfers while advocating for ocean sustainability.
The Future of Women’s Surfing
At just 22, Molly Picklum has already achieved what many dream of — a world title and the top spot in global rankings. But her journey is far from over. With her relentless drive, humility, and natural flair, Picklum isn’t just dominating women’s surfing — she’s redefining what it means to be a champion.
Molly Picklum is not just riding waves; she’s shaping the future of the sport, one perfect barrel at a time.
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