By Jack Burden

In a recent Instagram post, Louis Duplan-Fribourg revealed that he underwent shoulder surgery a month ago on November 15th, following the World Championships. Despite the challenging setback, the reigning world overall champion expressed optimism about his recovery and his anticipation to return for the upcoming 2024 season.

Sharing insights into his journey, Duplan-Fribourg acknowledged the undisclosed struggles he faced with a painful shoulder over the past couple of years. In collaboration with his team, he decided that the post-World Championships period presented an opportune moment to address the issue through surgery. Currently immersed in the rehabilitation process, Duplan-Fribourg assured his followers that he is fully committed to preparing for the next season.

The French athlete had an exceptional breakout season, culminating in his crowning as the world overall champion in Florida earlier this year. Throughout the season, he achieved remarkable milestones by breaking both the French national trick and jump records. His consistency on the professional circuit was evident as he secured runner-up positions to Joel Poland at every stop on the WWS Overall Tour.

Duplan Fribourg’s podium finishes included a third place in tricks at the U.S. Masters and a debut jump podium at the MasterCraft Pro. Undoubtedly, he concluded his season on a high note with an outstanding performance at the World Championships. During the preliminary round, he set the highest-ever trick score in the event’s history, only to be surpassed by Patricio Font three skiers later.

Despite an intense challenge from Joel Poland, Duplan-Fribourg secured his first world title in the overall event. His skill was further highlighted with a runner-up finish in men’s trick, coming within an equipment malfunction of the gold medal. We look forward to seeing Duplan-Fribourg back on the water in the upcoming season.