Joel Tudor wins 2020 Noosa Longboard Open

Joel Tudor and Kelis Kaleopaa claimed the 2020 Noosa Longboard Open at Noosa Heads in Queensland, Australia.

The American surf legend defeated his fellow countryman Kevin Skvarna in the final held in two-foot waves.

Tudor won two world longboard titles in his career - 1998 and 2004 - and had made his last appearance at the Noosa Festival almost 20 years ago.

"The last time I won this event, most of the competitors here this week weren't even born," said Joel Tudor.

"I didn't plan on competing, but then I got the wildcard and kept winning heats and found a rhythm. The best part is that my kids are here."

The 43-year-old logger conquered his last professional longboarding event 16 years ago.

"They’ve heard the stories and seen the trophies, but now they've witnessed their dad win, which is really cool. I guess I'm going to have to go for my third world title."

Joel Tudor won his first professional contest at the age of 15. Today, he is a longboarding icon and runs Vans Duct Tape Series, a private logging invitational competition

In the women's division, 15-year-old Kelis Kaleopaa used her advanced wave reading knowledge to defeat her friend Sophia Culhane in the final.

"I'm just so happy and grateful for all these opportunities. Sophia is one of my best friends, and I surf every single day back at home with her," said Kaleopaa.

"Last year was a learning year on the Tour. I didn't want to think about a world title. I am a very step-by-step person, but it's definitely a goal to be the youngest world champion."

2020 Noosa Longboard Open | Finals

Men
1. Joel Tudor (USA) 12.86
2. Kevin Skvarna (USA) 12.77

Women
1. Kelis Kaleopaa (HAW) 12.26
2. Sophia Culhane (HAW) 8.66