Limitless talent, incredible competitive success, impeccable style, pouty lips, and sleepy eyes—Julian Wilson is the poster boy for Australia’s current talent boom. “He’s probably the best junior in the world right now,” says fellow Aussie Dean Brady. “He doesn’t have a weakness. He’s solid on his forehand and backhand, he does crazy airs, but has the turns too, and surfs really well when it’s solid. He’s also not afraid to surf his best in contests. He’s the kind of guy who will land something massive in the last 10 seconds of a heat to win.” Not only does Wilson have the talent and innovative mindset to rise to the next level, but spending much of his surfing life on the swell-starved Sunshine Coast has forced him to spend a great deal of time riding a longboard, which has resulted in a finely tuned, eye-pleasing style. This highly touted youngster is one of Jordy Smith’s best friends, but may soon become his biggest competitive rival.