Australian rookie Morgan Cibilic has emerged as a shock World Surf League title contender despite losing to world No.1 Gabriel Medina in the final of the Rottnest Search.
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Cibilic, in his first year on the main tour, progressed to his maiden WSL final on Tuesday with victory over countryman Liam O'Brien in their semi-final showdown at Strickland Bay on Rottnest Island.
In tricky conditions, Cibilic posted a two-wave total of 10.67 out of 20 to edge out O'Brien (8.33).
Cibilic cut his foot on the rocks in the dying moments of that win, but he made a bright start to the final when he posted a 7.27 ride to put the pressure on Medina.
The two-time world champion responded with an 8.50 to go with his earlier 7.00, meaning Cibilic needed an 8.24 to snatch back the lead.
Cibilic was patient in his approach, but he couldn't find another scoring wave of any significance, meaning he finished on 7.87 compared to Medina's 15.50.
Brazilian Medina is the runaway leader on the world rankings with two wins and two runner-up finishes from five events.
The top five surfers will qualify for September's season-ending event in Lower Trestles, California, where they will battle it out for the world title.
Cibilic has rocketed from 11th to fifth on the back of his best-ever result, and he also boasts two wins over two-time world champion John John Florence this year.
The 21-year-old, who has also posted a third and a fifth placing this year, said he is growing in confidence.
"I guess you can always dream, but not all dreams come true," Cibilic told AAP about his hopes of qualifying for the season-ending event.
"I've just got to keep working hard, and put together some more results in the next few events.
"It was a really tricky final today because the waves were pretty slow so I didn't get too many opportunities.
"You can't give (Medina) an inch, because he's so good and talented. He lucked into the two really good waves of the heat."
Medina was thrilled to come away with the win, further extending his lead at the top of the standings.
"I'm so happy man. I can't believe it," Medina told the WSL broadcast.
"That was amazing. I had so much fun at this event. It's been my best year so far. I'm so happy."
O'Brien, who was competing in his first WSL event after getting an injury wildcard, did remarkably well just to make the semi-finals.
His magical run included wins over Miguel Pupo, Seth Moniz, and Filipe Toledo.
Australian Associated Press
