There will be no 12th world title for Kelly Slater this year: In a battle that came down to the wire in the last event of the season, Joel Parkinson survived to win the Billabong Pipe Masters, taking the Pipeline event and surfing’s world title, both for the first time. It was a moment of redemption for the Australian, who was on the title track in 2009 but suffered a season-ending ankle injury, opening the door to best friend Mick Fanning taking the crown. Slater, 40, was bumped in the semifinals by Josh Kerr, who was edged by Parko in the final. Too bad Slater didn’t make it to the last round — that would’ve been some serious drama. Parkinson, of course, is ultra-stoked. And who carried him up the beach after the win? Mick Fanning. Via GrindTV.

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Tags: Surf

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