Tom Lowe Named Surfer of the Year
The British big-wave specialist received the prestigious honor at an awards ceremony held in Los Angeles.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Surfing
St Ives native Tom Lowe has been named Surfer of the Year at the Big Wave Challenge. The 42-year-old athlete is the first British surfer to claim the top award.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights a significant career milestone for a big-wave rider who continues to compete at the highest level of the sport. The award honors his contributions and performance throughout the recent competition cycle.
Tom Lowe, 42, secured the Surfer of the Year title while also earning a nomination for ride of the year for his performance on a wave at Mullaghmore, Ireland.
The players
Tom Lowe
He is a 42-year-old big-wave surfer from St Ives who has become the first British athlete to win the Surfer of the Year award.
The details
Lowe was honored during a ceremony in Los Angeles for his dedication to big-wave surfing. The recognition follows his recovery from head trauma sustained during a severe wipeout at Teahupo'o, Tahiti, in September 2025.
Timeline
September 2025: Lowe suffered head trauma in a wipeout at Teahupo'o.
September 2026: Lowe was named Surfer of the Year in Los Angeles.
Season Trajectory
This win cements Lowe's status as a global leader in the big-wave circuit, challenging the traditional dominance of riders from surf-heavy regions. The accolade elevates his career standing and influence within the professional big-wave rankings.
Lowe’s victory validates his performance at Mullaghmore, which previously earned him a ride of the year nomination. Fans and observers can track his recovery and ongoing season progress following his 2025 accident.
The takeaway
Lowe’s journey from a severe injury in Tahiti to global recognition underscores the resilience required in elite big-wave surfing. His success serves as a testament to the growth of the sport among international athletes outside traditional surf hubs.
Further reading
For more on the current landscape of professional riders, visit our Surfing section.
