Who is Mick Fanning?
Mick Fanning is an Australian surfer who won three men's world surfing titles, in 2007, 2009 and 2013. He became famous worldwide in 2015 when he fought off a shark during a competition in South Africa.
Fanning was born in Penrith, New South Wales, in 1981 and grew up on the Gold Coast, where he surfed at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. He was nicknamed White Lightning for his speed and blond hair.
He joined the championship tour in 2002 and was known for his fast, powerful surfing and competitive determination.
World champion
Fanning won his first world title in 2007 and followed it with titles in 2009 and 2013. He won the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach several times.
In July 2015, during the final of the J-Bay Open at Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, a shark approached Fanning and knocked him from his board. He punched it and escaped unharmed, and the incident was broadcast live around the world.
Fanning retired from full-time competition in 2018 after his final Bells Beach event. He has since been involved in business ventures and surf films.
Did You Know?
Fanning grew up surfing at the famous Superbank on the Gold Coast.