We’re excited to bring you an exclusive interview with the only rider to have won the Gran Canaria Frontón King in both Junior and Men’s divisions.
A young athlete known for his radical approach to big waves, especially for attacking the lip in the most critical spots.
Born in the Canary Islands, specifically in Los Realejos, Tenerife. He’s been practicing bodyboarding for 13 years, and at just 21, he’s already achieved many feats in the sport, becoming one of the current top figures and a feared rival on the circuit.
Meet DAVID PÉREZ
- Tell us how you got started in bodyboarding and what this sport brings to your life. Also, what was your childhood like in Tenerife?
Well, I think the main reason is my environment—living on an island so close to the ocean—and being part of a surfing family. It was easier for me to get into bodyboarding. I’d just go to the beach and imitate my uncles and brothers who already surfed.
You’re the only rider to have won the Gran Canaria Frontón King two years in a row, in 2022 in the Junior division and in 2023 in your first year in the Men’s division.
- How does it feel to be prince and king of the Frontón, one of the most powerful waves on the planet?
It’s been totally incredible. I think it’s something everyone who practices this sport has dreamed of at some point, and I’ve been lucky enough to do it twice. Plus, achieving these goals in the Canary Islands, surrounded and supported by loved ones, definitely made the experience even better. Also, when results like these come without any expectations, they taste even sweeter.
After these two big wins at the Gran Canaria Frontón King, I bet everyone’s asking you the same thing.
- Will you do it again?
I’ve always been clear about it. I know how tough it is and the mental responsibility that comes with setting that goal. That’s why, in recent competitions, I try to focus on showing my best surfing without putting pressure on the results, but still with the same hunger to win.
- We know you surf some really powerful waves in Tenerife. Name your favorite spots, both on your island and outside of it.
Canaries are known for their slabs, mostly. That’s where I feel most comfortable expressing my best self. Many high-radical spots are my favorites—they’re not as famous as El Frontón or others, but they help me prepare for big contests like the Frontón King. Also, spots like Punta Blanca, a legendary place for Canary bodyboarding, where the high level of riders in the water always pushes me. Outside the islands, I’ve traveled and surfed quality waves, but I’d say Honey Smacks in Indonesia is one of my favorites.
- Who are your idols or role models in bodyboarding? Who has helped you reach this level?
Álvaro Padrón has always been a role model for me. I remember going to the beach as a kid with my uncle, and when I saw him in the water, my motivation doubled—sharing a session with him (and it still does). I learn a lot from him, and he’s someone who helps you improve. Internationally, riders like Guilherme Tamega and Pierre Louis Costes have been big influences. Even though they’re quite different, I try to take inspiration from their best qualities.
- Guilherme Tamega 2. Pierre Louis Costes 3. Álvaro Padrón
- What are your future plans, both in sports and personally?
I love competing, and my goal is to become a world champion someday. Armide Soliveres has been a huge inspiration this year; he showed me that with a strong mental game, everything gets easier and more possible. I don’t obsess over it though. I focus a lot on improving my surfing every day and on becoming an inspiration for the new generations.
- Send a message or advice for young people who want to start or get better at bodyboarding.
I think they should watch a lot of bodyboarding, not just Instagram reels. Movies, documentaries… even old ones. It’s important to know the history and evolution of our sport and to see its true essence. Respect the older guys and try to learn from them.
- You’re Teresa Miranda’s brother. How does it feel at home having two top bodyboarders? What has it meant for you to surf with Teresa and share this passion together?
I think it’s been key for both of us to achieve our results. Growing and evolving together has pushed us to help each other improve. It’s been a really positive experience.
- Tell us your best moments in competition and a travel story or funny anecdote:
I don’t think it’ll surprise anyone, but winning the Frontón King in Men’s Division was totally unexpected for me, and I’ll remember that day forever. In terms of freesurfing, I feel lucky to have surfed dream spots with riders who inspire me. One example is sharing a session in Sumatra with Andrew Lester.
- Here’s your space to thank or share anything you want:
I want to thank everyone who supports and lifts me up. I feel lucky to surf with the people I do every day—they inspire me and help me reach my goals. Of course, my family—I’ll be forever grateful to them because today I can chase my dreams thanks to their help.
Thanks to my new sponsor, Dua Surf Shop, the local shop in Tenerife. I feel really comfortable surfing and representing this shop, surrounded by familiar faces who work just because they love the sport. With that shared passion, I’ll keep surfing with lots of enthusiasm to keep growing.
Instagram: davidperez04_