McGillivray, Smith and Baum To Represent South Africa at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games

Jordy Smith will come up against Ethan Ewing (Aus) and Tim Elter (Ger) in his first-round encounter, and Matt McGillivray will face Joan Duru (France) and Jack Robinson (Aus).

Sarah Baum will come up against Yolande Hopkins (Por) and Caroline Marks (USA) in her first-round heat. The full draw can be found here.

“I’m super-excited about competing in the Olympic Games, and Teahupo’o is an intense venue, so there is much anticipation around the event,” said Smith. “I think we’ve got a very confident and strong team, with Matt and Sarah, so hopefully we can bring home some medals. It always feels pretty electric at Teahupo’o, especially when there are waves, everyone wants to get a great barrel.”

Jordy Smith at the Outerknown Tahiti Pro 2022 

Photo by Damien Poullenot/World Surf League

The contest venue, Teahupo’o in Tahiti, is a much-revered surf location with waves that can get big and terrifying. Both Smith and McGillivray have excelled here in the past, and Baum is confident in waves of consequence, so there is much belief that our surfers will do well at this venue. 

“In the surfing world, if you win a gold medal, for the rest of your life, you’re known as an Olympic Gold Medalist,” said Baum on her thoughts on the Olympics. “Whether you retire from surfing and you’re 60 at a barbecue or something, being a gold medalist is huge among people who don’t surf.”

Sarah Baum at the Ballito Pro 2024 -Photo by Kody McGregor/World Surf League

Team manager Reza De Nicker is also very upbeat about the Olympics. “Our athletes have reached the pinnacle of sports: the Olympic Games. The stage is right before them as we embark on a life-changing journey. Being in their corner is a humbling experience and a huge honour. They are as ready as possible with all the hard work already; now they just have to shine and soak it all in!”

For more details on Surfing at the Olympic Games – here

See also: 10 Things to Know About Surfing in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games