Kelly Slater has probably ridden his last wave. Competing at the Margaret River Pro, Slater failed to put up a dominant display. Soon after the race was over, murmurs over the 52-year-old’s retirement became louder. Boasting a monumental career, Slater is an 11x world champion. With 56 event victories, Slater holds the record for being the men’s oldest and youngest champion. Following his emotional departure from the latest event, Slater got a well-known ally in Mick Fanning. 

Mick Fanning and Kelly Slater had the most bizarre of friendships. Being an arch-rival, the duo were supposed to be enemies. However, embedded beneath the heat of their competitive nature was a warm bond of love and friendship. And while Slater bids adieu to the sport, Fanning is right by his side to remind Slater of his greatness. 

Mick Fanning and Kelly Slater: A tale of love and competitive spirit of the highest order

Fanning took to his Instagram to pen down a heartfelt message for Kelly Slater. He thanked him for his service to the sport. Fanning also stated that it was Slater who made people realize the extent to which a human mind and body can be pushed. He wrote, “Thank you for all the memories and battles”. The Australian surfer also posted a picture of the duo together that seemed to turn back the clocks. Mick Fanning and Kelly Slater have always been fierce rivals. 

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Competing at the Pipe Masters in Hawaii, Fanning clinched his third world title denying Slater his 12th. Yet, their friendship out of the water is a rarity. Speaking on Fanning’s personality, Slater stated, “On land before surfing, in heat prep time, he’s very serious, he doesn’t want you to talk to him. He wants his space. In the water he doesn’t want to talk or be chummy, he’s like, “We’re fighting.” Soon as the heat is over, the pressure valve is let out and he’s like, “We’re done.” Reflecting on one such incident, Slater remembered the semi final in Trestles. 

Slater had sneaked up on a wave behind Fanning that made the Australian mad. He cursed him badly on the water and the very next day, apologized to Slater. It is for these virtues that Slater and Fanning have such mutual respect for each other. So much so that Slater mourned the loss of Fanning’s brother a few weeks back. 

Kelly Slater shows compassion for Mick Fanning

Mick Fanning, in an unfortunate turn of events, lost his brother Ed Fanning back in March. Such a news came as a heartbreak for the Australian as previously, he had already lost his other two brothers, Peter and Sean Fanning. During the tough times, Mick was extended a hand of empathy by none other than Kelly Slater. 

Mourning the loss, the 11x world surfing champion posted on Instagram, “You guys have been through so much as a family. So sorry for your loss, Mick. Love to you and Mum and family.” Thus, it is evident that while both the surfers have left the waters, the strong bond of friendship runs ever so strong in their blood.