Mateus Herdy is a former World Junior Champion and one of the most anticipated newcomers to the Championship Tour. Recorded just days after his dramatic qualification for the 2026 season, Herdy opens up about the emotional rollercoaster that defined his six-year journey to the CT. The Brazilian aerialist reflects on the heartbreak and disbelief of thinking he’d missed out again this year, the surreal final minutes that flipped the script, and the overwhelming support from the global surf community that followed. He also shares what it meant to qualify alongside close friends, the influence of his hometown of Florianópolis, and how surfing alongside his childhood friends Joao Chianca and Sammy Pupo now feels like a full-circle moment. Herdy breaks down his mindset heading into his rookie year, from traveling with fellow CT competitors to learning iconic stops like Bells Beach and Pipeline, while targeting waves he believes suit his progressive approach. He discusses equipment changes, the support he’s received from Julian Wilson and the Rivvia team, traveling with his coach, Leandro Dora and working with Logan Dulien on Snapt 5. Learn more about Mateus and follow him here. Follow Joe Turpel here. Stay tuned to the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach Presented by Bonsoy, Apr 1 - 11. Join the conversation, follow the league, follow The Lineup, and stay updated on all things WSL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices