John John Florence Talks Fatherhood The Olympics And A Shift In His Competitive Approach

Surfing Icon John John Florence Discusses Family, Olympics, and Competitive Mindset

Fatherhood and Family

John John Florence, a renowned surfer and three-time world champion, opens up about the profound impact fatherhood has had on his life. "It's the most incredible thing in the world," Florence says, "It's changed my whole perspective." Florence's wife, Lauryn Cribb Florence, gave birth to their son, Nathan Florence, in 2022. Florence credits his family as his source of motivation and inspiration.

Balancing the demands of surfing and fatherhood has required adjustments, but Florence remains dedicated to both. "It's a juggling act," he admits, "but I wouldn't trade it for anything. Being a dad is the greatest thing that's ever happened to me." Florence prioritizes quality time with his family and actively seeks to create a nurturing and supportive environment for his son.

Tokyo Olympics and Competitive Spirit

Reflecting on his Olympic debut in Tokyo, Florence acknowledges the challenging conditions and psychological toll it took on athletes. Despite placing ninth, Florence remains proud of his performance and the opportunity to represent his country. "The Olympics was an incredible experience," he says, "It was a lot to handle, but I learned a lot about myself and my limits."

Florence's competitive spirit remains strong, but his priorities have shifted. "I still want to win," he says, "but it's not the only thing that matters. I'm more focused on enjoying the moment and surfing for the love of it." His approach now emphasizes longevity and maintaining a healthy relationship with competition.

Evolution of Surf Career

Over his illustrious career, Florence has witnessed significant changes in the surfing landscape. The rise of social media has transformed the way surfers connect with fans and the growth of big-wave surfing has pushed the boundaries of the sport.

Florence embraces the evolution and believes it has brought new opportunities for surfers. "The sport is constantly changing," he says, "and I think it's important to adapt. I'm excited to see what the future holds for surfing." Florence's unwavering passion and dedication remain the driving forces behind his continued success.