After a stellar start to the 2023 Championship Tour season – including a first place (at Pipe), a second (in Portugal), and a third (at Sunset) – currently ranked world number two, Jack Robinson, has withdrawn from the Margaret River Pro.
Robinson, who is from Western Australia and won the Margaret River Pro last year, cited a knee injury, sustained while surfing during the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, as the reason for his absence at this year’s event. He took to social media to make the announcement:
“During my heat at Bells, I ended up injuring my meniscus (cartilage in my knee),” Jack wrote.
“After reviewing with a few specialists, and discussions with my team, I’ll be pulling out of the Margaret River Pro.
“As you all know, Margs is my home break, and I’m always looking forward to being in @westernaustralia. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to compete at Margs, but it’s what’s best for my recovery and long term goals.
“Next week I’ll be starting physiotherapy. I’m confident I’ll be back for the next event. It’s a long year and we are just starting!
“Thanks for all your support!”
The World Surf League confirmed Robbo’s withdrawal, noting that his slot in the comp will go to the second-place finisher in the upcoming trials event:
Fans and even fellow competitors commented on the posts to offer support for Robbo’s recovery:
“Rest up mate!” wrote fellow West Oz legend and former CT’er, Taj Burrow.
“Be back in no time,” penned Brazilian aerialist, Yago Dora.
“Heal up soon brother,” chimed in current world number 10, Leo Fioravante.
“Get well soon @jackrobinson72 praying everything goes well!” messaged defending World Champion, Filipe Toledo.
Jack’s absence at the Margaret River Pro will certainly be a loss – maybe not so much for the other competitors, but for the fans. As he mentioned, it’s his homebreak; ever since he was a towheaded grom, he’s been proving himself absolutely lethal at Main Break and The Box (the latter of which has potential to host the competition, fingers crossed, as a solid forecast is expected for the event).
Rest up, Robbo.
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