Surfing at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles

Overview

Surfing will continue to bring the spirit of ocean sport to the Summer Olympics in 2028. First introduced in Tokyo 2020, surfing highlights athleticism, balance, and creativity as athletes ride waves in pursuit of Olympic glory. At Los Angeles 2028, surfing will showcase the deep connection between sport and nature.

Venue

The surfing competitions are expected to take place along Southern California’s iconic coastline, renowned for its consistent waves and surf culture. The venue will provide world-class conditions for athletes while offering spectators a chance to experience the energy and atmosphere of competitive surfing.

Events

Olympic surfing features shortboard competitions for both men and women:

• Men’s Shortboard: Athletes perform maneuvers on waves, judged on speed, power, and flow.

• Women’s Shortboard: Competitors showcase creativity and precision, with equal opportunities for medals.

Judging criteria include difficulty of maneuvers, innovation, variety, and overall performance on each wave.

Competition Format

Surfers compete in heats, with each athlete given a set time to catch and ride waves. Scores are awarded based on their best two rides, and the highest-scoring athletes advance through rounds to the finals. The format encourages risk-taking and rewards both technical skill and artistry.

Significance

Surfing embodies the Olympic values of courage, determination, and respect for nature. It connects the Games to coastal communities and global surf culture, making it one of the most visually captivating and culturally resonant sports in the program.