Best Bets: 2024 WSL VIVO Rio Pro Pre-Event Odds Analysis

Schedule and How to Watch the 2024 WSL Rio Pro

The 2024 WSL VIVO Rio Pro is set to commence on June 22 at the legendary Praia de Itaúna in Saquarema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Known for its powerful beachbreak waves and raucous crowds, Itaúna has been a fixture on the CT since 2011. The event window stretches until June 30, allowing ample time for the world’s best to showcase their skills in the best possible conditions. Stay tuned for updates as the event approaches. To catch every thrilling moment live, simply head over to the WSL official site.

Odds Subject to Change

Please note, the odds provided herein reflect the raw probability odds for this analysis and are based on the information available at the time of publishing. Different sportsbooks may adjust these odds based on market conditions, bettor behaviors, and other factors that could influence the betting landscape. For a deeper understanding of why odds for alternative sports betting change and how it might affect your betting strategy, we encourage you to read our detailed article: Why Do Alternative Sports Betting Odds Change?. Make informed decisions and always check the latest odds with your sportsbook before placing bets.

Best Bets and Picks for 2024 WSL Rio Pro – Men’s Division

Top Picks and Bets – Men’s Division

Leading the charge of top contenders is the powerful Australian, Jack Robinson (+462), currently sitting at World No. 2. Despite a disappointing 5th place finish in El Salvador, where he was outmatched by a surging Yago Dora in the quarterfinals, Robinson remains a serious title contender. His aggressive approach and ability to generate incredible speed in critical sections make him well-suited to the punchy beach break conditions of Saquarema. With a string of consistent performances throughout the season, including a commanding victory at Margaret River, Robinson will be determined to bounce back and close the gap on the rankings leader. Expect the Australian to come out firing, showcasing his trademark power surfing and fearless demeanor in the high-stakes battles of Saquarema.

Hot on Robinson’s heels is none other than John John Florence (+567), the current World No. 1 and fresh off a commanding victory at the Surf City El Salvador Pro. The two-time World Champion’s win not only solidified his spot in the WSL Final 5 but also extended his lead over Robinson to a formidable 10,740 points. With his spot in the finals secured, Florence enters the VIVO Rio Pro with the freedom to focus on showcasing his incredible combination of power, grace, and innovation on the waves. While his track record in the Rio Pro has been somewhat inconsistent, he has demonstrated his ability to excel at this venue, with event wins in 2016 and 2012, as well as a strong third-place finish last year. For bettors considering their options, backing an in-form John John Florence is always a wise choice.

Completing the top picks is the ever-dangerous Gabriel Medina (+809), the hometown hero and three-time World Champion. Medina’s 3rd place finish in El Salvador (his second Semifinals appearance in a row) propelled him to World No. 6, putting him within striking distance of the coveted WSL Final 5. His aerial wizardry, explosive maneuvers, and unmatched competitive prowess make him a perennial threat, especially when fueled by the passionate support of the Brazilian crowd. Now with a bit of momentum on his side, expect Medina to unleash his full repertoire as he looks to climb back up the rankings and secure his spot in the WSL Final 5.

Outsider Picks – Men’s Division

Griffin Colapinto (+860) enters the VIVO Rio Pro as a tantalizing outsider pick, despite his round of 16 exit in El Salvador. The young Californian has been losing ground in the title race over the past few events, though his early season heroics have kept him afloat for the time being. Now, having lost his 2nd place ranking to Robinson by just 210 points after a disappointing showing in El Salvador, he’ll be determined to put on a strong performance and snag that spot back in Rio. Colapinto’s fearless approach and ability to post high scores in the punchy waves of Saquarema make him an attractive option for bettors seeking a potential dark horse. At +860 odds, backing Colapinto could yield a handsome payout if he manages to rediscover his form and make a deep run in Brazil.

Ethan Ewing (+1012), sitting at No. 4 in the rankings, presents another intriguing outsider pick. Ewing’s technical precision and ability to maximize scoring potential in less-than-ideal conditions could be a valuable asset in the shifty peaks of Saquarema. While his recent run of early exits may raise some doubts, Ewing’s overall consistency and heat strategy suggest he has the skills to navigate the tricky lineup and potentially cause some upsets. For bettors willing to take a calculated risk, Ewing’s +1012 odds offer an enticing opportunity for a substantial payout.

For bettors seeking a sentimental favorite with the potential to defy the odds, Italo Ferreira (+1092) is an intriguing choice. The 2019 World Champion, currently sitting at World No. 7, has endured an inconsistent season but recently reminded everyone of his championship pedigree with a victory back in Tahiti. After following that performance with a rough 17th place in El Salvador, he’ll need to bring his A-game to get back in the title conversation. Ferreira’s explosive surfing style and ability to energize the crowd could be a significant factor in Saquarema, where he’ll have the passionate support of the Brazilian fans.

Expert Pick for Rio Pro – Men’s Division

Our expert pick for the VIVO Rio Pro men’s division has to be John John Florence. The two-time World Champion’s resurgence this season has been nothing short of remarkable, and his commanding victory in El Salvador was an inspiring reminder of his unparalleled talent and competitive drive. With Florence now back to his best, showcasing the perfect blend of power, precision, and innovation that has made him into a living legend, the surfing world is buzzing with excitement. We expect John John to deliver another awe-inspiring performance in Saquarema and run up the lead a bit.

Head-to-Head Picks – Men’s Division

Opening Round Heats – Men’s Division

2024 WSL Futures Update – Men’s Division

John John Florence‘s dominant victory in El Salvador has catapulted him to the top of the odds table, with his price shortening from +341 to an impressive -109. This significant shift reflects his outstanding performance and cements his status as the clear favorite to claim the 2024 World Title. Jack Robinson and Griffin Colapinto, despite solid showings throughout the season, have seen their odds lengthen to +224 and +597, respectively, as Florence’s momentum grows. Meanwhile, Ethan Ewing and Italo Ferreira, hampered by inconsistent results, have drifted to +1482 and +3168, suggesting that their title aspirations are fading as the season progresses.

Best Bets and Picks for the 2024 WSL Rio Pro – Women’s Division

Top Picks and Bets – Women’s Division

Brisa Hennessy (+400) enters the VIVO Rio Pro as a strong contender for the win. Despite a disappointing quarter final exit in El Salvador, which cost her the top spot, Hennessy’s consistency throughout the season has been nothing short of remarkable. With semifinal appearances or better in every event prior to El Salvador, she’s proven her adaptability and competitive drive. Hennessy’s well-rounded skill set, combining powerful carves and precise maneuvers with an increasing arsenal of progressive moves, makes her a genuine threat in any conditions. Expect her to come out firing in Saquarema as she looks to reclaim her position at the summit of the rankings.

Next is Caitlin Simmers (+401), the prodigious talent from California. Fresh off her 3rd place finish in El Salvador, Simmers will be riding a wave of momentum into Brazil. Her innovative approach, blending technical precision with aerial flair, has redefined the boundaries of women’s surfing and solidified her status as a formidable opponent. With a mere 440-point lead over Hennessy, Simmers will be laser-focused on extending her advantage and taking another step towards securing her maiden World Title.

Rounding out the top picks is none other than the reigning World Champion, Caroline Marks (+403). The American’s commanding victory in El Salvador served as a powerful reminder of her competitive greatness and ability to thrive under pressure. Marks’ prowess on her backhand, coupled with her knack for delivering game-changing performances when it matters most, makes her a perennial title contender. As she sets her sights on becoming the first woman to successfully defend a World Title since the legendary Tyler Wright, Marks will be drawing upon her wealth of experience and determination to etch her name in the history books once more. With the added motivation of chasing down Simmers and Hennessy in the rankings, expect Marks to be a force to be reckoned with in Brazil.

Outsider Picks – Women’s Division

In the world of competitive surfing, there’s always room for a surprise or two, and the VIVO Rio Pro is no exception. Keep an eye on Molly Picklum (+431), the dynamic Australian who has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. Her powerful rail turns and increasingly progressive maneuvers make her an exciting prospect in any lineup. While consistency has been a challenge for Picklum, her ability to deliver statement-making performance is a testament to her raw talent and competitive drive. If the stars align and she finds her rhythm early in Saquarema, Picklum has the skills to go the distance and shake up the title race.

But don’t sleep on Johanne Defay (+819), the seasoned competitor from France. With years of experience at the elite level, Defay brings a tactical approach and heat management skills that could prove invaluable in the challenging conditions of Saquarema. Her ability to maximize scoring potential on less-than-perfect waves sets her apart from her younger, more explosive rivals. Defay’s consistency and unwavering focus make her a serious threat to the top contenders, even if she doesn’t always grab the headlines. For bettors looking for a savvy pick, Defay’s experience and tactical prowess could pay dividends in the unpredictable realm of competitive surfing.

Rounding out the outsider picks is a rookie who has taken the surf world by storm: the electrifying Sawyer Lindblad (+892). The Californian’s meteoric rise through the ranks has been one of the most compelling stories of the season, thanks to her fearless approach and progressive surfing style. Lindblad’s ability to push boundaries and take on the world’s best with unwavering confidence is remarkable, especially considering her rookie status. While her relative inexperience at the elite level may lead to some ups and downs, Lindblad’s raw talent and competitive drive make her an enticing prospect for bettors seeking a high-risk, high-reward pick. If she can harness her incredible potential and find her form in the challenging waves of Brazil, Lindblad could be poised for a breakout performance that reshapes the title race in thrilling fashion.

Expert Pick for the 2024 WSL Rio Pro – Women’s Division

Our expert pick for the women’s division at the VIVO Rio Pro is Caroline Marks. The reigning World Champion’s track record in Brazil is an impressive 3rd place finish last year. Marks’ ability to generate speed and deliver powerful backhand snaps on the punchy waves of Saquarema makes her a strong contender for the top spot. With the added motivation of defending her World Title and closing the gap on rankings leader Caitlin Simmers, Marks will be fired up and ready to prove that she’s still the one to beat. Expect the American to draw upon her competitive instincts and big-match temperament to navigate the challenging conditions and claim another crucial victory in the title race.

Head-to-Head Picks – Women’s Division

Opening Round Heats – Women’s Division

2024 WSL Futures Update – Women’s Division

Caroline Marks’ impressive victory in El Salvador has significantly boosted her title prospects, with her odds shortening from +441 to +153. This notable shift highlights her growing momentum and positions her as a serious contender for the 2024 World Title. Caitlin Simmers, despite taking the top spot in the rankings, has seen her odds lengthen slightly from +193 to +256. This suggests that while Simmers is still a strong pick, the title race remains highly competitive. Hennessy, despite her consistent results, has seen her odds drift to +585 following Simmers’ ascent to the rankings lead and Marks’ big win. Molly Picklum and Johanne Defay, facing an uphill battle to contend for the title, have seen their odds lengthen to +910 and +1606, respectively.

Where to Bet on the Surf City Rio Pro 2024

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As the VIVO Rio Pro approaches, the excitement and anticipation in the surfing world are reaching fever pitch. With crucial WSL Final 5 spots on the line and the World Title race heating up, every wave and every heat carries immense significance. Fans and bettors alike can expect a spectacle of high-performance surfing as the world’s best converge on the iconic waves of Saquarema.

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