August 25, 1988 // Durban, South Africa
Synopsis: A stylish, powerful surfer from the Bluff in Durban, Rudy Palmboom Jr. has used his success on the South African junior circuit to fuel his confidence. His few outings in the WQS foray have shown glimpses of greatness, but he has yet to secure a major international victory.
Variables: Hailing from a particularly wave-rich region of South Africa, Rudy seems to struggle on the road—and this is where his discipline and resolve will be tested, especially on the long grind of the WQS.
Forecast: Palmboom will have to make a big push in 2009 if he wants to stay relevant. All he’ll need is one major victory to make him realize that he has the ability to mix it up with the best of them.