Yasin Ahmed Nashid has etched his name into Maldivian surfing history after claiming the junior title at the Dhivehi Surf League’s newly introduced “Kerandhoo 2025” tournament. His dominant performance included a record-breaking score that featured the first-ever perfect 10 in the junior category.
In Sunday’s final heat, Yasin went head-to-head with last year’s champion, Mohamed Inan Abdul Hannan. The young surfer wasted no time making an impact, scoring six points on his first wave before delivering a flawless ride on his fourth attempt. Judges awarded him a perfect 10 — a score never before achieved in junior competition.
That ride propelled Yasin to a total of 16 points, the highest score ever recorded in a junior final. Inan, despite a strong effort, finished runner-up with 12.93 points, posting 6.33 and 6.60 on his two best waves.
Perfect 10s are rare in Maldivian surfing. The last known instance came when Ahmed Agil, popularly known as Ammadey, earned top marks in the open division at the Randha Raalhugandu event in K. Thulusdhoo. Yasin’s achievement marks the first time a junior surfer has reached that level, setting a new benchmark for the next generation.
Yasin’s journey to the crown began with a decisive semi-final victory over Ahmed Luzain. He posted 11.67 points, leaving Luzain trailing at 8.50. In the other semi-final, Inan impressed with a 15.17 total, scoring 8.17 and 7 points, while Kayan Abdulla Areef followed with 10.07.
Earlier in the quarterfinals, Yasin once again dominated, topping his heat with 14 points ahead of Inan’s 11.67. Defending Mulikolhu Raalhugandu junior champion Sayyid Salahuddin exited at this stage after finishing with 9.50. Ahmed Aal Aadil rounded off the group with 2.94 points.
The second quarterfinal saw Kayan advance with 14.17 points, followed by Luzain with 8.50. Mohamed Raul and Mohamed Ahil Ibrahim finished with 5.67 and 4.40, respectively.
This year’s “Kerandhoo” junior division drew 18 surfers, reflecting the growing popularity of competitive surfing among Maldivian youth. With Yasin’s landmark performance, the competition not only crowned a new champion but also showcased the rising talent shaping the future of the sport.
