Costes' Historic Maldives Win Highlights Epic Week in Bodyboarding

The Maldives Pro delivered a week for the ages, with Pierre-Louis Costes etching his name deeper into the history books while Namika Yamashita and Eyan Ahmed claimed their own glory. As the IBC World Tour rolled through Thulusdhoo, the waves of Randa Raalhugandu provided a dramatic backdrop for a competition that had fans on the edge of their seats.

Costes' victory was more than just another title – it was a landmark achievement. With this podium finish, the Frenchman became the most podiumed athlete in bodyboarding history, a testament to his consistency and dominance across multiple eras of the sport. His performance in the Maldives was a masterclass, blending power moves with razor-sharp rail work, and it sent a clear message to the rest of the tour: he's far from done.

But the spotlight wasn't solely on Costes. Namika Yamashita dominated the women's division, showcasing the depth of talent on the women's tour and solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, local hero Eyan Ahmed gave the home crowd plenty to cheer about, charging his way to the top of the podium in a deeply emotional victory that underscored the growing international reach of the sport.

Behind the scenes, the event also marked a significant step for the tour itself. The Maldives has rapidly become a favorite stop, with its crystal-clear waters and powerful, hollow waves offering the perfect canvas for high-performance bodyboarding. The return of the event this year was met with enthusiasm, and the live broadcasts drew a global audience eager to witness history unfold.

As the dust settles on the Maldives, attention now turns to the upcoming 2026 ArcelorMittal Wahine Bodyboarding Pro in Jacaraípe, Brazil. With wildcard applications officially open, the opportunity to compete alongside the world's best on the women's tour is fast approaching. Scheduled for September 10–20, the event promises to be another thrilling chapter in what has already been an unforgettable season.

For now, though, the bodyboarding world can savor the memories of a Maldivian week that redefined excellence.