Fanning Clinches Moche Rip Curl Pro Portugal

Mick Fanning (AUS) vs. Jordy Smith

After a pair of low-scoring Semis, it was quickly clear that the Final promised to be a different kind of party. Again, Mick Fanning was out of the gate first, getting a quick tube for a 5.67 to start. Fanning's next wave topped that: When Jordy Smith backed off of a left under priority, Fanning pulled in high and tight for a technical ride capped with wrapping turns for a 9.00.

Smith was then in a combination situation, but answered back with an impressive tube of his own, hacking the lip after the exit for a final flourish. He earned a 7.67 and then started to play the patience game. Fanning sat and waited too, as a long lull set in. It wasn't until the last three minutes that Fanning improved his scoreline, with a 6.50, to secure the event win in Peniche for the first time since 2009.

"I'm just stoked to get a win," Fanning said. "It's been about five years since I got a win here."