Kelly Slater
Kelly Slater
Robert Kelly Slateris an American professional surfer known for his competitive prowess and style. He has been crowned World Surf League Champion a record 11 times, including 5 consecutive titles in 1994–98. He is the youngestand the oldestto win the title. Upon winning his 5th world title in 1997, Slater passed Australian surfer Mark Richards to become the most successful champion in the history of the sport. In 2007 he also became the all-time leader in career event wins by...
NationalityAmerican
ProfessionSurfer
Date of Birth11 February 1972
CityCocoa Beach, FL
CountryUnited States of America
This was the most emotional title of my career. I was the youngest champion, and now I'm the oldest.
For a surfer, it's never-ending. There's always some wave you want to surf.
I've always thought surfing is a reflection of who you are.
Everything started coming into my head, ... I was the youngest world champ and now I'm the oldest world champ; it's been seven years since I won my last title and this is my seventh one ... but all those numbers and things are not as important as the feeling.
Most anything Ive ever set my mind to, I could accomplish.
To receive a 10-point ride is a blessing in itself, but to have it honored by giving to those who could use a little support to accomplish the things they want to do in life is a bigger blessing. The school is something I believe hugely in. They provide a special place for kids to understand things that many people avoid or never learn to deal with their whole lives.
I think when a surfer becomes a surfer, it's almost like an obligation to be an environmentalist at the same time.
Surfing is my religion, if I have one.
A wave isn't like a skate ramp or mountain; everything's moving around, and you have to time how to move along with it. That's easier with a slow wave.
It's all about where your mind's at
Well I'm always working on constantly everything. I never take the approach that I'm doing as well as I possibly can... I always think there's more and I think if you don't have that, you are not driven to be better.
I've been in a poor physical shape many times in my career and I've had some of my best results. My best performances happened because my mind was in the right place. The mind is definitely stronger than the body.
Motivation is temporary. Inspiration is permanent.
It's like the mafia. Once you're in - your in. There's no getting out.