Yago Dora: the 2019 US Open of Surfing champion | Photo: Herron/WSL

Yago Dora and Sage Erickson claimed the 2019 US Open of Surfing, in Huntington Beach, California.

The final got underway in highly contestable three-to-five foot waves at Surf City's south pier.

For the first time in its long history, the US Open of Surfing awarded equal prize money to both male and female surfers.

In the women's, all-California final, Courtney Conlogue started strong with a couple of average scoring waves, but Erickson slowly built her total score with better rides.

In the end, she left her opponent needing an 8.90-point wave which never materialized.

"I would like to dedicate this to my grandma, who passed two weeks ago. I love you so much, and I know you'd be proud," said a very emotional Sage Erickson.

Sage Erickson: she dedicater her win to her late grandmother | Photo: Herron/WSL

"It's crazy how it takes someone to leave for everything they’re about to really set in."

On the men's side, Dora and Liam O'Brien delivered a splendid show.

But halfway through the final, the Brazilian put an end to the Australian underdog's hopes after landing an air reverse and shooting the pier.

"I had a good feeling about this event. Today, I felt the signs, and it all really fired me up. This is a huge event, and it was the biggest accomplishment of my career," said the champion.

2019 US Open of Surfing | Finals

Men
1. Yago Dora (BRA) 16.03
2. Liam O'Brien (AUS) 11.34

Women
1. Sage Erickson (USA) 15.40
2. Courtney Conlogue (USA) 12.93

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