Did Griffin Colapinto Deserve a 10 at The Box?
A Spectacular Ride at The Box
On May 21, 2025, the World Surf League made a dramatic return to The Box, Western Australia’s notorious and dangerous reef break, for the first time in six years. During the very first heat of the day, California surfer Griffin Colapinto delivered what many called one of the most impressive barrel rides of the year. Navigating through a massive, chaotic foamball, Colapinto emerged cleanly and flawlessly, leaving viewers stunned. Many expected a perfect 10.
A Score That Sparked Debate
Despite the jaw-dropping ride, the judges awarded Griffin a 9.00. Instantly, social media erupted. Fans and surf enthusiasts questioned the decision, calling the ride “a 10 all day,” and asking, “What more do you want—him to walk on water?” Frustration with the scoring echoed across platforms, reigniting the age-old debate about judging consistency in professional surfing.
Griffin’s Grateful Perspective
Colapinto, however, remained humble and positive. Speaking after the heat, he described it as one of the best of his career, saying he was simply thrilled to finally get barreled in a jersey. Throughout his career, he’s often missed out on epic conditions due to early exits in contests. But this time, he felt fortunate to be part of the action. “I woke up and went, wow, I get to surf in this,” he said. “I was just so grateful for that opportunity.”
The Timing Might’ve Affected the Score
There’s a belief in the surf community that judges are more conservative early in the day or event, hesitant to hand out perfect scores too soon before seeing the full range of performances. Had Griffin’s wave come later in the event, many speculate it might’ve been treated differently. It’s common for judging standards to subtly shift as the day progresses and the conditions reveal their full potential.
Unreal Maneuver or Missed Perfect Score?
WSL commentator Chris Cote praised the ride with flair, jokingly calling it an “Inverse Floater” or “Frontside Barrel Roll,” and summed it up as “full on wizard move.” Regardless of the number next to his name, Colapinto’s barrel at The Box was an unforgettable moment—an instant highlight in what could become a defining year for the surfer.
Whether or not it deserved a 10, one thing is clear: Griffin Colapinto reminded everyone exactly why The Box remains one of the most thrilling—and brutal—stages in competitive surfing.