German surfer Sebastian Steudtner is being hailed as a world record holder after he surfed a monster wave at Nazaré, Portugal in February. Measured at 28.57 meters (93.72 feet), the wave was provisionally recorded as the biggest ever surfed, surpassing Steudtner’s previous record of 26.21 meters (86 feet) set in 2020 at the same location. The World Surf League will have to confirm whether Steudtner’s wave qualifies as an official world record, but given the exceptional conditions at Nazaré on February 24 and the Atlantic Ocean swells and deep canyon near the shore, it seems likely that this will be the case.
Steudtner, 38, has taken a scientific approach to his craft, using wind tunnels typically used for Porsche car testing and partnering with Siemens to study the biomechanics of big-wave surfing. His focus on innovation and technology has helped him in his quest to surf waves over 100 feet tall. In addition to Steudtner’s achievement, other surfers like Brazilian Lucas “Chumbo” Chianca have also had notable rides at Nazaré, showcasing the incredible waves that draw surfers from around the world to this stunning location.
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