Enduring Slater wins again – at 44

Kelly Slater returned to the winner’s podium at the age of 44 as he claimed the latest stop of the World Surf League’s top tour.

American veteran Slater beat young Hawaiian star John John Florence in the final of the Billabong Pro in Tahiti.

In a barrell riding shootout at the intimidating Teahupoo reef break, Slater scored a near-perfect combined total of 19.62 for his two best rides. Florence scored 15.23, injuring a knee late in the final as he pushed hard for a winning ride.

Slater, the 11-time world champion, hadn’t won a WSL event for 21⁄ years.

This was his 55th tour victory and lifted him 11 places to to No 8 on the world rankings with hopes of pushing on for another world title.

Florence’s result saw him take over the world No 1 ranking with four events of the 11-contest tour remaining.

Australian No 1 Matt Wilkinson, who had led the rankings from the opening event, slipped to No 2 after an early exit in Tahiti.

Slater was thrilled to be back in the winner’s circle, admitting he hadn’t surfed to his potential this year before going back to the basics in Tahiti where he recorded four perfect 10 rides.

‘‘My year starts now,’’ Slater said.