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Nine-year-old Maldivian prodigy Aaliyah Latheef delivered a sensational performance in Sri Lanka, taking first place in the Open Girls' division at the SFSL Surf Championships 2026 – Arugam Bay Series

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Uthu

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September 15, 2026
1 min read
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Aaliyah Latheef holds her 1st-place trophy beside her surfboard atop the podium at the SFSL Surf Championship 2026 in Arugam Bay, flanked by the 2nd and 3rd place finishers.
Aaliyah Latheef holds her 1st-place trophy beside her surfboard atop the podium at the SFSL Surf Championship 2026 in Arugam Bay, flanked by the 2nd and 3rd place finishers.


  • Demonstrating poise and skill well beyond her years, Aaliyah put on a masterclass in wave selection and execution throughout the tournament heats.Following her victory, the Maldives Surfing Association (MSA) applauded the young surfer, noting that her composure and technical ability under pressure against seasoned competitors showed extraordinary promise.
  • Aaliyah’s international breakthrough follows a string of impressive achievements on home waters. At age eight, she made national headlines by winning the Under-18 Women's Division at the inaugural Maldives National Junior Surfing Championship 2025.
  • Having caught her first waves at just three years old at Chickens Surf Point, Aaliyah’s rapid ascent highlights both her dedication and the rising caliber of young talent emerging from the Maldivian surfing scene.

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