On the planet’s most challenging lineups, one name now resonates like a ground swell: Tya Zebrowski. At 15, the rising star of women’s surfing has already etched her name on the big board of records and set specialist coverage soaring.
Tya Zebrowski’s meteoric rise on the elite circuit
Born in Bayonne and raised between the beach breaks of Landes and the legendary Teahupo’o pass, the young surfer joined the Championship Tour at the end of 2025, earning the earliest qualification ever seen. Her first CT heat took place at Pipeline in January 2026: solid bottom turn, vertical roller, where she posted an 8.33 that set the atoll buzzing.
Since then, every surfing competition has revealed another level: a final at the Rio Pro, quarterfinals at Sunset, a semifinal at J-Bay… the youngster turns every spot into her personal sandbox. Analysts note a 71% success rate on her critical maneuvers, a rare figure at her age.
Surfing roots between Polynesia and Landes
Her father Gary, a two-time Olympic snowboarder, introduced her early to water sports: by age four, the board was already an extension of her feet. The Tahiti–Hossegor blend forges a hybrid style: the power of Pacific reef breaks and an instant read on the sandbanks of Gascony. This combination explains her mastery of waves both mutant and ultra-hollow.
For those looking to experience the same thrills, the guide to must-surf waves around Hossegor details the Zebrowski family’s favorite peaks.
Technique and style: the signature of a rising star
Shapers speak of a “full rail” frontside attack, inspired by Carissa Moore but powered by a custom kick tail. On surfboards measuring 5’6 » with progressive rocker, she strings together gouges and airs without losing speed. Her backside carve at Teahupo’o, scored 9.17 by WSL judges, made the rounds in YouTube highlights.
Mastering hollow waves: a technical breakdown
Frame-by-frame video analysis: early rail engagement, open shoulders, eyes already on the lip. The weight transfer from heel to toe takes 0.18 seconds according to onboard sensors. Coach Yadin Nicol relies on this automatic response to land alley-oops on closing sections.
Physical and mental preparation of a young elite surfer
The 2026 season is contested across ten stops, three hemispheres, and just as many time zones. The crew has therefore put a meticulously planned protocol in place.
Yoga, nutrition, and data tracking: the winning routine
Between heats, the yin yoga session led by her mother rebalances fascia and breathing. Menus, tailored to her lactose intolerance, favor marine proteins and antioxidant micronutrients. The athlete also wears a bio-tracking patch that immediately alerts her in the event of dehydration.
- 30 minutes of meditation at dawn
- “Roundhouse cutback” surf-skate warm-up
- Water training: 8 x 50 m fin sprints
- Video analysis and post-heat strategic plan
- Vinyasa stretching routine at sunset
Those curious can try a similar program through the yoga & surf sessions in Hossegor.
2024–2026 results: progress mapped out on paper
| Season | Key event | Final ranking | Highest score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Challenger Series Champion | 1st | 9.65 at Ericeira |
| 2025 | Record CT qualification | – | 9.80 at Snapper Rocks |
| 2026 | Rio Pro Final | 2e | 9.17 at Teahupo’o |
The curve leaves little doubt: if the current run continues, a junior world title could soon become a reality at the senior level.
Meanwhile, local media are quick to point out that she learned to read the swell off Capbreton. Fans who want to score the same powerful swell can check out the spot review “XXL surfing in Capbreton” published this spring.
What type of surfboards does Tya Zebrowski currently use?
Mainly a quiver of 5’6’’ to 5’8’’ SharpEye boards, with medium rocker and sharp rails to ensure speed and grip on reef breaks as well as beach breaks in the Landes.
How does the young surfer handle media pressure?
A combination of daily yoga, heart-coherence breathing exercises, and a close-knit support circle keeps the buzz around her to a minimum, helping her stay focused.
What are the main goals for the 2026 season?
Break into the Top 5 in the CT rankings, earn a wildcard for the Tahiti Pro, and secure qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Why is her surfing considered revolutionary in water sports?
Because she combines Polynesian power with an instant read of Hossegor’s shifting sandbanks, along with aerial commitment rarely seen at age 15 on the women’s tour.