Back-to-back wins in Europe push the Brazilian to No. 2 on Jeep Leaderboard, setting up a thrilling World Title showdown.
Julian Wilson's primary source of inspiration these days is Bede Durbidge, his roommate in Peniche.
The World Title race narrows as tough conditions take their toll on contenders.
John John Florence and Jordy Smith advance with Round One wins, Owen Wright and Filipe Toledo out of 2017 World Title race.
Conditions thundered for the first day of competition for the MEO Rip Curl Pro, where dreams -- and boards -- were crushed.
Heavyweight conditions at Peniche's famous beachbreak made for a thrilling start to the MEO Rip Curl Pro.
The Tahitian earned a big Round One win over Filipe Toledo and Jadson Andre thanks to his tube-mining skills.
The Jeep Leader got the job done in Round One against Kanoa Igarashi and wildcard Mason Ho.
World No. 2 Jordy Smith didn't need much to get a crucial Round One win in Portugal and keep pace with Jeep Leader John John Florence.