Fred Patacchia Jr has announced his immediate retirement from the Samsung Galaxy Championship Tour. The announcement came following his round one victory against Gabriel Median and Bede Durbidge at the Hurley Pro. Patacchia posted an 8.9 and perfect 10-point ride, paddling in with four minutes to go to announce his retirement on the beach.
Ranked number 28 in the world, the Hawaiian has spent 11 years on the elite tour. He was the 2005 tour rookie of the year, finishing 14th, posting a career best result of 12th in the world the following year. The thirty-three year old will be sorely missed and remembered for his razor sharp backhand, entertaining post heat interviews and of course, that Freddy’s rock incident at Snapper.
“I knew the day would come when I would have to walk away from professional surfing,” said Patacchia. “While this isn’t the end of my surfing career, it’s probably the last time that I’ll compete on the big stage on the Championship Tour. However, I look forward to competing in some Qualifying Series events. I just need to take a step back and cool down. It’s tough to walk away from everyone that has become my family but I’ve lived my dream, and I want to thank everyone who’s played a part in helping me do what I love.”
Tributes poured in on social media immediately following the news,
Mick Fanning took to Instagram saying,
“Congratulations @freddyp808 on an amazing career!! Thank you for all the amazing and funny times on and off tour!! You’re a great man, amazing husband and tremendous father. Thanks for being a great friend always. That last heat was the perfect way to walk out the way you deserve. You always left it all out there!! Love you you brother!!”
CJ Hobgood,
“@freddyp808 the passion you brought to surfing throughout your whole career is why we love oyu so much. But I do understand when that passion isn’t there your done…. Your such a solid, funny, humble, turst worthy friend I’ve ever had and it’s a true brotherhood we all share. Excited for the next chapter for both of us but please come back and surf pip with us pleeeeease! Much love always and that 10 get out of here.”
WSL commentator and former CT surfer Ross Williams,
“Chicken skin brah!!!!! Love you @freddyp808 congrats legend!”
Watch Patacchia’s 10-point ride at the Hurley Pro earlier today.
And his rock run in at Snapper back in March.
Finally, his goodbye interview today at Trestles.
