November 28, 1989 // Bayonne, France
Synopsis: Joan Duru might be the only person on this list who can say that they beat Kelly Slater in a heat—in a world-title year, no less. He achieved this feat at the Quiksilver Pro France, where Joan out-surfed Slater and Chris Ward in their Round One heat. He followed this up with a fifth-place finish at the U.S. Open.
Variables: Despite good results in 2008, this young Frenchman has a lot to do if he wants to make a lasting impact on the surf world.
Forecast: Joan has some solid experience in steep, hollow waves, but his backhand is yet to be tested. Without some competitive success on the international stage he’ll struggle to make an impact in the United States.