TITLE IS UP FOR GRABS IF OWEN IS ON SONG
OWEN Wright says the world surfing title is there for the taking and feels he can be a contender for a maiden crown after a confidence-boosting performance at the Tahiti Pro.
Wright was pipped by former world champion Gabriel Medina in the finale of the Tahiti Pro at Teahupo’o after admitting he made a mistake by selecting the first of two final waves in the finale.
But his second place has seen Wright rocket up the world rankings from 11th to sixth place.
“There’s still four more events to go so the world title is still there to be won for sure,’’ he said.
Wright said the loss to Medina stung but could serve him well as he made a late charge for a podium finish in the 2018 world title race.
“I feel like it’s a big boost mentally,’’ said Wright, forced to miss the recent J-Bay Open in South Africa due to illness.
“It has added real fuel to my belly.
“It also feels great to be back in the top 10. It’s a big jump mentally.’’
In a close battle for the top prize, Medina edged Wright 13.50 to 12.07 for the world tour event title.
“It all came down to those last two waves. I made the wrong decision and I’m already feeling that deep burn and drive,’’ Wright said.
“A second does help sometimes. It can give you fuel.”
Brazilian Felipe Toledo retains the No. 1 spot.