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Rip Curl Cup Pays Tribute to Bali's Local Surfing Community

• Reporter : Eka J. Artawan
• Editor : Angga

• 03 Agustus 2026
• Global Edition
• Badung

BADUNG, NETIZENBALI.COM – The prestigious international surfing event, the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang 2026, officially opened with a ceremonial event held at Padang Padang Beach in Uluwatu, Badung Regency, on Friday afternoon (August 1, 2026).

Running from August 1 to August 31, 2026, the competition brings together some of the world's finest surfers from Indonesia, Australia, Fiji, the United Kingdom, and Hawaii. The presence of these elite athletes once again places Bali at the center of the global surfing community.

President Director of Rip Curl Indonesia, James Hendy, said that the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang is more than just a sporting competition; it also serves as an important platform to promote Bali's tourism on the international stage.

According to Hendy, Padang Padang Beach is one of the world's most renowned surfing destinations, famous for its massive waves generated by powerful ocean swells and storms. Every year, particularly during July, August, and September—the peak surf season—thousands of visitors travel to the area to witness the beauty and challenge of its legendary waves.

"This event provides an incredible opportunity for Indonesian surfers to showcase their talent. The competition features eight international surfers competing against eight of Indonesia's best surfers," Hendy said.

He added that throughout the 20-year history of the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang, Indonesian surfers have secured more victories than their international counterparts, highlighting the country's ability to compete at the highest level of the sport.

"Last year, two Indonesian surfers, Westen Hirst from Sumbawa and Jasmine Studer from Bali, claimed the championship titles. We hope that Indonesian athletes will once again bring home the trophy this year," he said.

Hendy emphasized that local community support remains a vital component of the competition's success. Without the involvement and backing of local residents, he noted, an international event of this scale would not be possible.

He explained that one of the main goals of the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang is to provide Indonesian surfers with a global platform to demonstrate their skills and compete directly against some of the world's best athletes.

"This event is not only a major opportunity for Indonesian surfers, but also a tribute from the global surfing community to the growth of surfing in Indonesia and to the local people who have supported this competition over the years," Hendy stated.

Meanwhile, Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa said that the 23rd edition of the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang further strengthens Bali's position as one of the world's premier surfing destinations and an international tourism magnet.

He added that the Badung Regency Government continues to coordinate with the Tourism Office to ensure that the competition remains an annual event included in the international tourism calendar.

In addition, the local government is preparing infrastructure improvements and road access to the Labuan Sait and Padang Padang areas to provide greater comfort for visitors and reduce traffic congestion.

"During our administration, infrastructure development will continue to enhance the visitor experience at Padang Padang Beach. We hope that the 24th edition of the Rip Curl Cup Padang Padang will be even better, safer, and gain greater international recognition," Adi Arnawa said. (NB)