The victory sees Steph eclipse fellow Australian Layne Beachley’s seven titles to stand alone as the most successful female surfer of all time.

In a new format, the World Championship was decided in the World Surf League Final 5 competition in Lower Trestles California, which saw the top five ranked surfers compete in a tiered competition to determine the winner.

Entering the competition in fifth, Steph needed to have a perfect day, beating the fourth, third and second ranked surfers to progress to the final, where she defeated reigning World Champion Carissa Moore to take the 2022 crown.

AOC President Ian Chesterman said this was a great Australian victory.

“Congratulations to Steph on an historic win,” Mr Chesterman said. “To earn one world title is a special feat. To win eight titles and stand alone as the most successful female surfer of all time is an astonishing achievement.

“To compete at the highest level over such a long period of time is testament to Steph’s tenacity and dedication to excellence.

“Steph and the entire surfing community have embraced joining the Olympic movement, and the AOC is thrilled to have great Australian ambassadors like Steph as part of the Australian Olympic family.

“Congratulations again to Steph, Surfing Australia and the entire surfing community, who will be rightfully celebrating this historic achievement.”