Aussie's ‘sick' monster wave win
Picklum, who confessed to being scared by the monster break at Teahupo, where she contested last year's Olympics, put all fear aside to blitz reigning world champion Caitlin Simmers in the final.
The 22-year-old was near untouchable, scoring three brilliant eight-point waves to start the decider, creating a break Simmers could not reel in as Picklum solidified her No,1 ranking ahead of the final-five shootout for the world title in Fiji at the end of the month.
Picklum said she's head home to Australia for a few days and get some new boards after 'breaking a few' in Tahiti, primed for her world title push.
'I felt like I earned my stripes this event,' Picklum said.
'It was sick, so nice just to make a few waves and not get flogged.
'What a special place Tahiti is, you just feel the energy. It's where the dream comes alive, I'm so happy.' Molly Picklum barreled her way to the title in Tahiti. (Photo by Beatriz Ryder/World Surf League) Credit: Supplied
Picklum's win came after taking out the Rio Pro in Brazil two events before heading to Tahiti and she'll hit to the finals in supreme form.
'I'm so psyched,' she said.
'I'll go home for a few days, pack a few boards ... I broke so many here, and head over there and enjoy it for what it is.
'I finished No.1 this year, it's a massive step in the right direction, and hopefully I can get that cherry in Fiji.'
Picklum will be joined in the final 5 to contest the finals by Isabella Nicholls who jumped in to the contingent in Tahiti, taking the place of American Caroline Marks.
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