MICK Fanning will paddle out on the WSL Tour for the last time at Bells Beach, as the 37-year-old calls time on an illustrious career.
It’s a fitting final stop on a whirlwind career, with Bells representing the location of Fanning’s first Tour event win; a 2001 triumph as a lowly wildcard.
But the significance of Bells doesn’t stop there for the Aussie icon, who has turned the Victorian beach into his personal playground.
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Four event wins at Bells equals the most of any WSL stop for Fanning (stats via The Breakdown), with the Quicksilver Pro France and Jeffrey’s Bay the only other locations where the three-time world champion has been able to win as consistently.
Tied at four with Kelly Slater and Mark Richards; Fanning, a fierce competitor, will look to become the winningest surfer in Bells Beach history, following up on his 2001, 2012, 2014, and 2015 triumphs.
“I don’t want to put any expectations on it; I’m just going to go and surf,” Fanning told AAP.
“I’m stoked that I’ve got a whole bunch of family and friends coming down. “We’re going to have a good time.
“(Retirement) is something that’s been going on in my mind for a few years now and it was always the idea to come and finish at Bells.
“Obviously home is a great event but I just feel it’s too hectic for me, getting pulled every which way.
“It’s great to come down here. I feel calmer down here.”
In Round 1, Fanning will take on Sebastian Zietz and Jesse Mendes in the 12th heat of the day; with John John Florence, Julian Wilson and Filipe Toledo the other favourites to take out the event.
South African Jordy Smith will look to defend his 2017 title, while fellow ‘Cooly Kid’, Joel Parkinson, will be there as his childhood friend competes for the final time.
It will be Fanning’s 19th appearance at Bells, moving him equal third alongside Taylor Knox, behind only Kelly Slater (23) and Taj Burrow (20).
The first day of the 2018 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach will be live on Fox Sports 507, with coverage running from 8am through to 6.30pm.