Sport · Singapore Bureau
Florence sits out 2027 world tour, dimming LA Olympics bid
Three-time world champion John John Florence will not pursue a wild card entry for professional surfing's world tour next year, effectively ending his chances of competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
LSN Singapore ·
The American surfing champion has decided against seeking wild card status for the 2027 Professional Surfing Association tour season, a move that closes the door on Olympic qualification through the standard pathway.
Florence's absence from the competitive circuit removes one of surfing's most accomplished athletes from contention for the Los Angeles Games. His decision reflects a significant shift in his competitive priorities as he considers his future in the sport.
The 32-year-old Hawaiian, who has claimed three world championships during his career, would have needed to secure sufficient rankings points through world tour competition to qualify for Olympic selection. Without participation in the tour, alternative routes to Olympic qualification become unavailable to him.
Florence joins a growing list of elite surfers reassessing their involvement in professional competition. His withdrawal from the world tour circuit raises questions about the future composition of Team USA's surfing roster for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Surfing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games and has secured its place on the LA 2028 programme. The sport's inclusion in the Olympic calendar has intensified focus on qualification pathways and athlete commitments to professional competition.