Zoe Benedetto: the surfer and model ranked no.1 in the Women's Qualifying Series

The world of women's surfing has evolved over the years into a major industry due to its great talents. Names like Carissa Moore and Stephanie Gilmore have dominated the scene for almost a decade. New talents, much like Zoe Benedetto, are knocking on WSL's door, asking for a spot on the tour!

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In case you didn't know, Zoe Benedetto has been ripping it up! The 18-year-old American surfer has become a major sensation from coast to coast. Despite her age, she is number one in the Women's Qualifying Series.

American Surf Magazine described the young American surfer as a future champion! "Not only is Zoe a bright spot when you talk about up-and-coming Florida surfers; she's a name to watch amongst the talent pool on the Qualifying Series."

After a slow start to her qualifying season, Benedetto regained her form and earned herself some podiums. Hard work and commitment have seen the Florida surfer back at the top!

So far this year, she's hoisted the first-place trophy at Cold Waters Classic, Mike Martin Pro, Barbados Surf Pro, and Coastal Edge ECSC Pro.

Benedetto has shown signs of growth and improvement in her surfing. According to Jetty Surf Magazine, she looks much stronger than last year and her ability to nail the heats is showing more and more. During the 2022 season, she ranked 2nd in the Qualifier Series, with a total of 11,073 points in 5 events. Now, she is ranked 1st with 20 heat wins under her belt!

Benedetto won the Coastal Edge ECSC Pro back in August, alongside California surfer Kolohe Andino. A massive victory for the young American surfer, who just got one step closer to a potential World Tour spot.

Benedetto powered through a lousy two-foot heat to put her name down as one of the youngest surfers to ever win a final at the iconic 1st Street Jetty (Virginia Beach).

"It feels super nice, this one definitely hits good. The final was super fun and just wish we had more waves to surf... I'm happy with my surfing," shared Benedetto with WSL after winning her heat.

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Benedetto was ranked 7th three years ago (2021), with very little exposure. She put her head down and worked hard on her surfing, and now she is enjoying a comfortable spot at the top.

The 2023 Barbados Surf Pro was one of Benedetto's biggest career wins, securing a QS 5000. She dominated the Soup Bowl, arguably one of the most challenging waves in the Caribbean!

The Florida surfer managed to secure back-to-back wins at Barbados, securing another 5,000 points for the QS. "Back-to-back wins in the 5,000 is a special way for my season to end. I first want to express how grateful I am for every single message I have received over the last couple of days, the supper and immense kindness have been so beautiful," wrote Benedetto on her Instagram.

Zoe Benedetto was born on August 19, 2005, in Palm City, Florida. Surfing some warm Florida beach breaks was Zoe's favorite activity while growing up.

As she entered the world of Pro Junior Surfing, her talent was visible with every turn: smart wave selection, sharp moves, and quick agility.

For some strange reason, Benedetto outperforms her usual self in cold waters! When asked about her cold water magic in an ASM interview (American Surf Mag), Benedetto responded: "I have no idea! My parents and I were looking at my results, and I just seem to do so much better in cold water than in warm water."

"I thought to myself, 'What the heck is going on?' I'm from Florida, I never surf in booties, but I thrive in them," shared Benedetto during an interview for ASM.

Benedetto is not only a world-class surfer, but also an in-demand model! She has signed a sponsorship deal with Hurley and is a lead model for their women's range.

Image source: Instagram @zoe_benedetto

It is more than likely we will see Zoe Benedetto enter the World Tour sometime in the next couple of years. She has the talent and the personality of a World Champion. Who knows, maybe we'll even see her in the Olympics!

Image source: Instagram @zoe_benedetto

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