Champion Surfer Tyler Wright Navigates Safety Concerns at Abu Dhabi Event

Tyler Wright, a two-time world surfing champion, is set to compete in the Abu Dhabi surfing event. As a gay athlete, Wright sought assurances about her safety in the UAE, where homosexuality is illegal. The World Surf League confirmed a safe environment for the competition.

Two-time world surfing champion Tyler Wright is preparing to participate in the Abu Dhabi event, a landmark addition to the World Surf League calendar. This decision follows Wright's request for guarantees from organizers about her safety as a gay athlete in a country where homosexuality is illegal.

Expressing her concerns, Australian surfer Wright communicated via Instagram, sharing that she has worked closely with both UAE officials and the WSL to ensure she competes in a welcoming environment. This move comes after her relatives voiced criticism about the inclusion of Abu Dhabi in the professional surfing circuit.

The venue boasts a massive artificial wave pool, similar in technology to Kelly Slater's Surf Ranch in California. As the men's events recently commenced, the women's competition is poised to begin, further spotlighting safety and inclusivity concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)