Current World #1 Tyler Wright Makes Statement Regarding Abu Dhabi Wavepool

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It’s no secret that the 80-million liter hot-tub on Al Hudayriat island has received a healthy share of criticism from the masses and CT surfers alike. 

When it was first announced as a stop on the 2025 CT,  concerns were immediately raised about Tyler Wright’s homosexuality — and about how LGBTQ+ athletes will be treated in a region where same-sex relations remain illegal. Critics have also accused the event of being part of a larger ‘sportwashing’ agenda, where governments use high-profile sporting events to distract from human rights issues.

Today, the recent winner of the Lexus Pipe Pro made a post on Instagram addressing the topic.

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A post shared by Tyler Wright (@tylerwright)

Per Instagram:

“I’ve been working with the appropriate teams in the UAE as well as the WSL and am assured that I will be competing in a welcoming and safe environment.

Competing around the world has been my job for a long time. Over the years, I’ve seen the impact of the women’s tour and programs like WSL Rising Tides and how they have inspired a generation of women and many to come.

Yesterday, I had the privilege of sharing the love of surfing with the WSL Rising Tides girls who had never surfed before. The abundant collective joy in that session was truly memorable.

Sport has a beautiful and powerful way of fostering connection, community and representation. “If you can see it, you can be it.” That’s something that has remained important to me throughout my career.”

So, how will Tyler do? 

Well, click here for Ryan Millers Abu Dhabi predictions, and here for our entire premium Abu Dhabi preview.