Joao Chianca, Brazil's former world number four, is set to make a remarkable return to the surfing scene at the upcoming Paris Olympics in Tahiti's Teahupo'o. After a life-threatening concussion in December, Chianca has defied the odds, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Chianca had an outstanding 2023, marked by his first World Tour victory in Peniche, Portugal, and securing four top-five finishes on the circuit. His impressive performance led him to the World Surf League (WSL) Finals in September, where he finished fourth overall.
\"I was happy to have an excellent year, to start a very good year for my career, where I had my first World Tour victory,\" Chianca shared with Reuters. Despite facing tough competition from fellow Brazilian Filipe Toledo, who claimed the world championship, Chianca proudly secured the second spot for Brazil.
Tragedy struck in early December when Chianca suffered a severe wipeout at The Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore, Hawaii. The accident left him unconscious and with multiple injuries, including a fractured skull and brain bleeding. After two weeks of observation, Chianca made a swift recovery and returned to the waves six months later.
His comeback was nothing short of impressive. At the Surf City El Salvador Pro, Chianca defeated world number two Griffin Colapinto in the Round of 16 before finishing fifth after a match against three-time world champion Gabriel Medina.
\"I'm getting very close to my Olympic dream, and I realize that this battle against this injury is almost over,\" Chianca expressed. \"Physically, psychologically, mentally. Whatever you want to put on me, I'm ready.\"
Chianca is eager to compete in Tahiti, where he feels a strong connection with the Olympic wave. \"It's a marvelous place, a wonderful energy. I have a very good relationship with the wave from my free surfing trips there,\" he said.
As the Paris Olympics approach, Chianca remains focused and determined to showcase his skills on one of the biggest stages in sports.
Reference(s):
Brazil's surfer Chianca ready for Paris after recovering from injury
cgtn.com
