Stab High Japan 2025, presented by Monster Energy, brought a new level of performance and energy to the world of competitive surfing. Held at the state-of-the-art Shizunami Surf Stadium, this wave pool event focused exclusively on aerial maneuvers—highlighting the most progressive side of modern surfing.

Hughie Vaughan Claims Victory

18-year-old Australian surfer Hughie Vaughan stole the show with a standout performance that earned him the top prize of $20,000. His calm demeanor and explosive talent were on full display during his final ride, which featured a flawless backside indy that secured the win.

Vaughan's victory signaled the rise of a new generation of aerial surfers who are combining style with technical precision in a way that’s redefining the sport.

Mikey Wright Makes History

Veteran competitor Mikey Wright delivered a historic performance, earning the highest score ever recorded in a pool-based Stab High contest: a stunning 49 points. Known for his aggressive, all-or-nothing approach, Wright pushed the boundaries of aerial surfing with power and fluidity.

His performance underscored just how far the sport has evolved, and how competitive wave pool events are becoming a proving ground for innovation.

Strong Showings in Women’s and Youth Divisions

The Pro Women’s division saw Sierra Kerr take the spotlight with consistent, stylish airs and confident execution. Her performance showed that the level of talent in women’s aerial surfing continues to climb rapidly.

In the Ladybirds category, 12-year-old Eden Walla stunned spectators with a clean backside air reverse, showcasing both skill and composure far beyond her age.

Meanwhile, in the Bottle Rockets division for younger competitors, Loci Cullen emerged as the winner, offering a glimpse into the bright future of the sport.

Why Stab High Japan Mattered

More than just a contest, Stab High Japan 2025 reflected the growing influence of wave pools on high-performance surfing. With predictable, consistent waves, surfers are able to experiment and refine their technique in ways that open up new creative possibilities.

Events like this are redefining competitive surfing—not by replacing traditional ocean competitions, but by offering a new arena for innovation and aerial progression.

Final Thoughts

Stab High Japan 2025 was a milestone for the aerial side of surfing. From breakthrough youth performances to record-breaking scores.

As wave pool technology improves and new talent continues to rise, events like this will play an increasingly central role in shaping what’s next for surfing.