In the electrifying finals of the eThekwini Surf Pro 2025, Moroccan surfer Lilias Tebbai carved her name into history. At just 21 years old, the Casablanca native delivered a world-class performance at Durban’s famed New Pier, finishing runner-up in one of the most competitive QS 2,000 events on the African circuit.
With powerful turns, tactical brilliance, and an undeniable sense of poise, Tebbai confirmed what many in the surfing world have already suspected: a new star has emerged—and she wears the green, red, and star of Morocco.
A Historic Final in Durban
Tebbai’s path to the final was anything but ordinary. From her opening heat, she approached each round with precision, balance, and calculated aggression. Her quarterfinal performance showcased her maturity under pressure, while her semifinal heat revealed her ability to read unpredictable conditions with clarity.
In the final, facing South African powerhouse and local favorite Sarah Baum, Tebbai struck early with a high-risk reentry and clean execution, establishing momentum. Despite Baum’s late comeback, Tebbai held her ground and closed the heat with composure, securing a career-best second place.
More Than a Podium: A Statement of Potential
Tebbai’s silver medal marks the first time a Moroccan woman has reached a QS final of this magnitude, setting a precedent for women’s surfing in North Africa. Her result earns her 1,600 points on the World Surf League Qualifying Series leaderboard, lifting her into the Top 25—a critical position as she eyes future Challenger Series qualifications.
“Every wave I ride is not just for me—it’s for every Moroccan girl who dreams of stepping into the ocean with purpose,” Tebbai said after the final.
What Sets Her Apart
Lilias Tebbai isn’t just another surfer climbing the rankings—she brings a unique blend of athleticism, resilience, and cultural influence:
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Technical Finesse: Whether attacking steep rights or maneuvering in soft beach breaks, her transitions between frontside and backside maneuvers are seamless.
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Mental Fortitude: Calm under pressure, she thrives in elimination rounds and adapts quickly to shifting priorities in the lineup.
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Dual Excellence: While competing on the world stage, Tebbai continues her academic studies in physiotherapy—balancing sport and education with grace.
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Cultural Symbol: In a sport still striving for inclusivity, she stands as a powerful figure for Arab and African women in action sports.
The Road Ahead
Tebbai’s Durban performance is just the beginning of what promises to be a breakthrough season. She’s set to compete next in the Ballito Pro Challenger Series in July—her first appearance on this elevated tour level. Later this year, she’ll represent Morocco at the African Beach Games in Hammamet, with eyes firmly on the gold.
Between events, she returns to her training base in Taghazout, where she will focus on increasing her scoring potential and refining her power surfing ahead of the 2026 season.
The Crown Is Coming
While the title in Durban slipped just out of reach, Lilias Tebbai left the event with something even more powerful—respect, recognition, and momentum. She has proven that she belongs among the sport’s brightest prospects, and perhaps more importantly, she has sparked inspiration far beyond the waterline.
With a board under her feet and a nation behind her, the “Princess of Moroccan Surf” is no longer just a rising talent—she is the future