Casablanca – Moroccan surfer Ramzi Boukhiam says he is settling into a strong rhythm at the Outerknown Tahiti Pro, after eliminating two of the sport’s biggest names to reach the next stage at the iconic Teahupo’o break.
Boukhiam most recently defeated Brazil’s João Chianca in Round 3, producing an impressive 8.00 single-wave score to secure his place in the final eight of the World Surf League event.
The victory came just one round after the Moroccan pulled off one of the competition’s biggest surprises by eliminating world No. 1 Leonardo Fioravanti, posting a heat total of 15.67 against the Italian’s 13.50.
Reflecting on his recent performances, Boukhiam told World Surf League he is beginning to feel increasingly comfortable in Tahiti’s heavy conditions.
“I’m happy. I’m finding a good flow here,” he said after advancing. “I’m going to try my best tomorrow. If it’s your day, it’s your day.”
The 31-year-old also commended the atmosphere of his heat against Chianca, describing it as a contest built on mutual respect and enjoyment rather than rivalry.
“Good energy with João. On days like this, you just want to have fun and show off your surfing.”
Boukhiam has long been regarded as one of Morocco’s greatest sporting pioneers. He became the first Moroccan surfer to qualify for the World Surf League Championship Tour, opening doors for African and Arab surfers on the global stage.
A two-time Olympian, Boukhiam represented Morocco when surfing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games before returning for Paris 2024, where the surfing competition was also held at Teahupo’o.
With confidence growing and momentum on his side, Boukhiam will now look to continue his run at one of surfing’s most prestigious events.
