The 2026 WSL World Junior Championships roared to life in La Union as the sport’s brightest young talents attacked the demanding waves of Urbiztondo Beach on Sunday. With global prestige and career-defining rewards on the line, intensity quickly spiked at The Point in San Juan.

Surfers from around the world wasted no time testing the powerful breaks, knowing the event offers a direct path to the Challenger Series and, ultimately, the Championship Tour. For many, La Union represents both a proving ground and a turning point.

Global standouts bring star power to La Union

Championship Tour rookie Bella Kenworthy of the United States arrived brimming with confidence, praising the character and rhythm of La Union’s waves. At just 17, she enters the competition armed with elite experience and clear title ambition.

Britain’s Lukas Skinner also drew attention as he returned from a major injury and immediately embraced the spotlight. The 17-year-old, fresh off another Boardmasters triumph, called the event the biggest stage of his career and expressed readiness to showcase his best surfing.

Brazil’s Laura Raupp, a three-time World Junior Championship quarterfinalist, added further weight to the women’s field. The 19-year-old Challenger Series regular aims to extend her country’s dominant junior legacy while making the most of her wildcard opportunity.

Filipino wildcards chase breakthrough moment

Host nation Philippines fields four wildcards eager to make their mark against the world’s elite. Troy Espejon headlines the local contingent, proudly representing the country in his World Junior Championship debut.

Joining him are brother Toby Espejon, Mara Lopez, and Cathleya Casals, all carrying hopes of inspiring a new generation of Filipino surfers. Competing at home adds pressure, but also fuels belief as they attack familiar waves under global attention.

The stacked field also features former world champions, Challenger Series standouts, and rising prospects from Australia, Europe, and South America. As heats unfold, La Union has already proven it will reward bold surfing and punish hesitation.