Caroline Marks’ face radiates sheer joy as she tries to put into words the euphoria of clinching her first world surfing title. “I feel like I’m floating on a cloud,” she says, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

It’s been just three days since this young American prodigy conquered the sport’s ultimate prize, displaying her incredible talent at the World Surf League Finals at Lower Trestles. Imagine reaching the pinnacle of your career at the age of 21, and doing it by defeating a legend who once adorned your bedroom walls.

Caroline and a surfing victory

Caroline Marks triumphed over Carissa Moore, a five-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, with a breathtaking performance, earning her the title of the youngest world champion since Moore’s second victory in 2015. Marks, a goofy-footed surfer from Florida, is only one of three women on the tour who lead with their right foot. Her achievement, the first world title for such a surfer since 2005, speaks volumes about her exceptional talent and determination.

Speaking from her home in San Clemente, Marks admits that her victory was even sweeter because of her near-miss in 2019. She was in a nail-biting battle with Moore for the world title, but it slipped through her fingers on the final day. Looking back, she believes that her success this year was meant to be, perfectly timed.

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A journey of a champion

Across the country, another young prodigy, tennis star Coco Gauff, achieved her dream by winning her first grand slam title at the US Open.

The similarities between Marks and Gauff, both hailing from Florida, are striking. Gauff burst onto the global scene at just 15, defeating Venus Williams at Wimbledon, the same age Marks joined the Championship Tour. They both know the pressures and scrutiny that come with early success, especially in the age of social media.

Marks understands the weight of expectations all too well. The constant pressure of being told she would become a world champion added an immense burden, making anything less than the pinnacle of success feel like a failure.

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Marks, the third of six siblings, grew up in Melbourne Beach, Florida, surrounded by sports. She initially pursued barrel racing but transitioned to surfing to win her brothers’ approval. Her surfing journey began at 11 when she won the prestigious Under-12 Surfing America Prime competition at Trestles. This marked the beginning of her journey into professional surfing.

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