Australia’s accomplished surfer Tyler Wright, a two-time world champion, took significant measures during the off-season to enhance her chances of clinching Olympic gold later this year. She underwent a transformative procedure that involved the insertion of seven screws into her head.
Following her achievement of reaching the quarter-finals in Portugal this year, Wright disclosed her enduring struggle with a respiratory condition stemming from narrow airways, hampering her oxygen intake throughout her surfing career.
The 29-year-old athlete, set to represent Australia at the upcoming 2024 Olympics, consulted specialists at the conclusion of the previous season. They advised her to undergo a crucial procedure to install a maxillary palatal expander, aimed at widening her upper jaw to improve airflow before she could resume competitive surfing.
Wright expressed, “I’ve had numerous medical experts question how I manage to perform at my level. Considering my brain scans and anatomy, it’s quite remarkable that I excel as a professional surfer. It was revealed through one of the specialists that I have been consistently under-oxygenated, essentially suffocating through my nose due to constricted airways.”
The procedure has proven beneficial for Wright as she sets her sights on securing a third world title on the WSL Championship Tour and aiming for Olympic glory in Tahiti.
Describing the impact of the procedure, she shared, “It has truly been a life-altering experience, and I have never felt more grounded. With seven screws ranging from 9mm to 17mm in length inserted into my head, I underwent expansion during the off-season. This process entailed breaking the bone to create an additional 7mm of airway space.”
She continued, “I have transformed an inefficient system into an efficient one. Each morning, I wake up feeling rejuvenated. However, adapting to this new system is a challenge after 13 years. Despite the complexity, I am progressing with the unwavering support of exceptional doctors guiding me through this journey.”
Wright has encountered various health setbacks in her career, including a prolonged absence from competition due to post-viral syndrome after her back-to-back world titles in 2016 and 2017. Additionally, she missed last year’s final WSL event due to severe period pain.
Reflecting on her current health journey, she stated, “I am focused on healing my nervous system and experiencing restful sleep for the first time in 15 years. Understanding this season has required external assistance, and I approach competitions with a newfound perspective.”
In her upcoming challenge at the Rip Curl Pro in Supertubos, Wright is set to compete against Hawaiian surfer Gabriela Bryan in the quarter-finals, aiming to secure her first event victory of the season. Alongside Molly Picklum, Ethan Ewing, and Jack Robinson, she will represent Australia at the Olympic surfing event commencing on 27 July.