Overview

• Tyler Wright posted an 8.17 wave score to win her heat, advancing to the round of 16 in her bid for a third Bells Beach title.
• Wildcard Ellie Harrison defeated top-ranked Molly Picklum in their opening-round heat, pushing Picklum into the elimination round.
• Gabriela Bryan recorded the highest heat and wave scores of the day, continuing her strong form after winning in El Salvador.
• Defending champion Caitlin Simmers also advanced to the round of 16, solidifying her world number one status.
• Poor afternoon conditions led to the postponement of the men's opening round, now scheduled to resume Saturday.