The influence of wave size on the performance of surfers in the World Surf League (WSL wave size)

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to verify the influence of wave size on the performance of surfers in the main division of the World Surf League (WSL) Tour. The study included 31 surfers from the top division of the 2019 tour of the WSL. The two best waves of each surfer per heat were evaluated, separated, and combined, from round one to the final, totaling 1749 waves and 847 combinations. The study variables were related or associated with the number of victories and ranking. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used in all correlations in the study and Binary Logistic Regression to verify possible associations and estimate the odds ratio (OR) between the variable wave size and the result. Through the evidence, it was concluded that: 1) those surfers who during the season caught the biggest waves of the heats more often were more likely to win their heats and achieve better rankings in the season; 2) all surfers had to catch a portion of just no bigger waves and the best classifieds took advantage of them better; 3) the biggest waves had the greatest influence on the tubes, then on the turning maneuvers and lastly on the aerials; 4) the three groups of maneuvers were decisive for the good performance in the season, being the tubes the most decisive.