Giddy Anticipation as The Box Returns with a Bang
Excitement filled the air in Western Australia on Wednesday as the World Surf League made a long-awaited return to one of its most iconic and challenging waves—The Box. It had been six years since this legendary break was featured in competition, and its comeback did not disappoint.
The opening heat of the day delivered immediate action. American surfer Griffin Colapinto took on one of the most intense and visually chaotic waves of the day, managing to navigate through a massive, turbulent foamball and emerging cleanly into the channel. The ride was electric—many watching believed it was deserving of a perfect score.
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However, the judging panel awarded him a 9.00 instead of a 10. Almost immediately, the internet lit up with reactions. Fans voiced their disbelief, questioning how such an impressive ride didn’t earn the highest score possible. Comments like “That was a 10 all day!” and “What u want him to come out walking on water?” captured the public’s sentiment.
Despite the controversy, Colapinto remained upbeat. He expressed joy simply at having the chance to compete in such ideal conditions—something that had often eluded him in past events. Reflecting on his performance, he said this heat felt like one of the best of his career. He recalled the frustration of past losses that kept him from surfing prime waves at iconic locations like Teahupo’o or Pipeline. But this time was different—he woke up, saw the conditions, and felt nothing but gratitude for being in the water.
Colapinto was competing in Heat 1 of the Round of 16 at the Margaret River Pro on May 21, 2025. Some speculate that his early placement in the competition may have affected the judges’ scoring. It’s widely believed that the judging panel often hesitates to award perfect scores too early in the day, preferring to keep the door open for even better rides as conditions unfold. This strategy can lead to exceptional performances being slightly undervalued early on.
Still, the maneuvering Colapinto displayed on that wave was jaw-dropping. WSL commentator Chris Cote described the ride as containing elements like an “Inverse Floater” and “Frontside Barrel Roll,” calling it “incredible” and likening it to a magical move.
Whether or not it deserved a perfect 10 remains up for debate. But what’s certain is that The Box made a thrilling return to competition, and Colapinto’s ride set an electrifying tone for the rest of the event.