Kelly Slater is probably the best competitive surfboarder of all time. He has had a phenomenal career, crowned with eleven world titles. The surfer is best known for his expertise, which is perhaps the best in the world. At 20, Slater became the youngest World Champion, and at 39, he became the oldest World Champion.

Many of us draw inspiration from other people. We set our goals to become like (if not better than) our idols. For Kelly, he had not one but two sources of inspiration.

Kelly Slater drew inspiration from Armstrong and Woods

Two pure legends in each of their sports, Lance Armstrong and Tiger Woods have had iconic careers. Although Lance’s career was eclipsed by the doping scandal, at the time, he was one of the best cyclists ever. While Tiger Woods is responsible for ‘uplifting’ the sport’s status amongst the masses. His achievements helped the sport grow outside the ‘elite’ community.

Kelly says both Lance and Tiger have hugely impacted him. “But, like I drew a lot of inspiration from Lance Armstrong and Tiger Woods before I ever met those guys. You know, probably more so, before I ever met them,” said Slater in an interview.

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He also added he gets more inspiration from seeing what people are doing from afar. Staying next to them doesn’t help him as much. If one is wondering about something, it helps them imagine what it takes to get something done and come up with ways to achieve success. Slater feels it is better than going to someone to ask for help and have everything be laid out for you.

“What the F**k Am I Doing Here”: US Legend Kelly Slater Makes a Surprising Statement on Dark Side of Surfing Sport

Kelly is also an inspiration to another GOAT

Kelly’s life became a full circle in one particular sense. The surfboarding legend drew inspiration from two icons of their sport. He served as a source of inspiration to Lewis Hamilton – the former F1 world champion. The seven-time F1 world champion has had a glorious career, especially since his switch to the Mercedes racing team.

Hamilton once tweeted saying how Slater has served as a source of inspiration for him, without even knowing it. The F1 driver wrote, “Kelly probably doesn’t know this, but he changed my life for the better. I want you all to know how great of a human being this man is.” He also added he will forever be grateful to Kelly for the time and insights he gave him.

WATCH: 50-Year-Old Surfing Legend Returns Back to the Water a Few Weeks After Facing Major Setback Post Oscars 2022

Kelly’s comments are a great tribute from one legend to another. It is a treat to watch the legend perform, and at 50, Slater shows no signs of stopping.