Carissa Moore, a 31-year-old surfing legend, is embarking on a new chapter in her life: motherhood. Known for her extraordinary achievements, including a gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and five World Surf League Women’s World Tour Championships, Moore now faces the thrilling journey of becoming a parent.
Her announcement in August 2024 was a surprise revelation, as she shared that she was expecting her first child in February 2025. This news followed her participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she competed while in the early stages of pregnancy. Despite her exit in the quarterfinals after a challenging loss to France’s Johanne Defay, Moore’s journey inspired many as she joined a select group of athletes who have competed at the highest levels while pregnant. These include Egyptian fencer Nada Hafez, who was seven months pregnant at the Paris Games, and Azerbaijani judoka Yaylagul Ramazanova.
Moore’s gender reveal party later became a moment of celebration and joy. The event featured vibrant floral decor, coral and peach tones, and a banner declaring, “Baby on board. It’s a GIRL.” Held with her family and friends, the gathering included thoughtful details such as a seashell nursery mobile, a baby library, and an array of desserts like macarons and cupcakes. Moore, adorned in a flower garland, expressed her gratitude to her mother and sisters for organizing the event, calling it the “most beautiful shower” she had ever experienced. She also thanked her broader support system for their advice and encouragement throughout her pregnancy.
In an interview reflecting on her experience, Moore opened up about the challenges of competing during the first trimester. She described dealing with physical and emotional struggles, such as fatigue and unpredictable emotions. Despite careful planning to ensure her baby’s safety, the experience was more demanding than she anticipated. Her quarterfinal loss was a bitter moment, as she had hoped to defend her Olympic title. However, Moore chose to focus on the positives, finding comfort in the anticipation of becoming a mother. She shared that while the Olympic loss was disappointing, the prospect of welcoming a new life filled her with hope and joy.
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This transition has marked a new phase for the five-time world champion, who is now embracing the journey of motherhood with the same resilience and determination she’s shown in her career. For Moore, this moment is not just about stepping into a new role but also about redefining what it means to be a female athlete, balancing professional excellence with personal milestones.