A battle of event standouts unfolded for the women’s Final with a quick start from Zebrowski over Lindblad. 14-year-old Zebrowski accrued a 12.34 (out of a possible 20) in the first five minutes of the Final before Lindblad found a gem to unleash her backhand attack on a two-turn combo and earn a 6.50 to close the gap on Zebrowski. A crucial exchange at the 20-minute mark witnessed Lindblad utilize her forehand power, earning a 6.23 and the lead before Zebrowski answered back moments later on a forehand combination all her own. But the score fell just short of the requirement, and Lindblad remained in the lead.
Then, Lindblad showcased more of her forehand dominance and laid into a closeout section with everything she had to post a 6.67 and push the lead. Zebrowski’s last effort witnessed the teenager soar and nearly land an air-reverse. But, she couldn’t stick the landing and Lindblad claimed her second US Open of Surfing title.
“All year I worked really hard, and it felt deflating when it wasn’t playing out in the competitions, just not hitting in the heats,” continued Lindblad. “But this feels really good and like it pays off. Thank you to everyone for watching and supporting me, and thank you to my family for coming down with me every day.”
Lindblad showed her desire for a second event title throughout the weekend with some of the event’s best performances. Lindblad’s forehand power, along with her backhand precision, carried her through Finals Day, starting with former CTer Sophie McCulloch (AUS). Then, Lindblad took down fellow 2026 CT requalifier Brisa Hennessy (CRC) in a stout Semifinal clash that propelled her toward a second US Open of Surfing Final. |