Surfing icon Kelly Slater, widely considered the greatest of all time, has sparked retirement rumors after failing to qualify for the remainder of the World Surf League season. The 52-year-old American, boasting an unmatched 11 world titles, lost to compatriot Griffin Colapinto at the Margaret River Pro. This defeat, Slater conceded to the World Surf League, “feels like the end.”

“That’s just the way it goes,” Slater acknowledged. “Everything eventually comes to a close. If you don’t adapt, you can’t keep up, and frankly, I haven’t had the unwavering dedication everyone else on tour possesses these days.”

Slater’s reign of dominance began in 1992 when, at a mere 20 years old, he became the youngest ever men’s world champion, a record he still holds today. Nearly two decades later, he defied expectations once more by securing his 11th title, etching his name as the oldest champion as well. Throughout this period, Slater was surfing’s undisputed global ambassador, a role that catapulted him to mainstream fame. Unlike most surfers, he garnered major endorsements, a memorable appearance on “Baywatch” (alongside then-girlfriend Pamela Anderson), and even his own video game, “Kelly Slater’s Pro Surfer.”

“When I’m out there on a wave,” Slater once said, “it’s like time slows down. You become incredibly aware of everything – the wave’s form, the timing, positioning yourself perfectly within the barrel. It takes every ounce of mental focus to execute it flawlessly.”

In recent years, however, injuries have hampered Slater, and whispers of retirement have grown louder. While this week’s results eliminate him from the tour for the remainder of 2024, the surfing legend hinted at potentially applying for a wildcard spot in Fiji come August.

“It’s been an incredible journey filled with unforgettable memories,” Slater shared at Margaret River. “So much emotion, so much dedication poured into this sport – it hasn’t always been sunshine and rainbows, but undeniably some of the best times of my life.”

While his illustrious surfing career appears to be nearing its conclusion, Slater remains optimistic. “This feels like the start of something new,” he concluded, “the beginning of the rest of my life.”