Former Australian Surfer Chris Davidson Dies After Assault Outside Pub
Chris Davidson, a 45-year-old former professional surfer from Australia, has died after being punched in the face outside a pub in New South Wales. According to police reports, Davidson was knocked to the ground by the blow and suffered a head injury when he hit the pavement.
Talented Surfer Defeated The Great Kelly Slater
At just 19 years old, Chris Davidson gained instant fame by beating surfing legend Kelly Slater in two consecutive heats. Slater is widely considered the greatest surfer of all time, so for Davidson to defeat him was a huge accomplishment.
Davidson's natural talent and flamboyant surfing style earned him the reputation as "one of the most gifted surfers in the world" in the 1990s according to Tracks magazine. By 2010 he was ranked the 14th best surfer in the world.
Slater Pays Tribute To His Former Rival
Upon learning of Davidson's passing, Kelly Slater posted a heartfelt tribute on his Instagram account. He wrote: "One of the most naturally talented surfers I’ve ever met. He gave me a lot of good fights, and I’ll cherish them all."
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation described Davidson as "an absolute prodigious talent and as flamboyant as he was in the water." Clearly he made a big impact on the surfing world during his career.
Davidson Succumbs To Injuries After Assault
The alleged assault occurred outside a pub in Kempsey, New South Wales. Davidson was punched in the face which caused him to fall backwards and hit his head on the pavement.
He received medical treatment at the scene but sadly passed away shortly after at Kempsey Hospital. A man in his 40s has been arrested and charged in relation to Davidson's death.
Surfing Community Mourns The Loss
News of Davidson's tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the surfing community in Australia and around the world. Many fellow surfers have expressed their condolences online.
Surfing NSW released a statement saying: "Chris was a talented surfer, fierce competitor and true individual both in and out of the surf." A memorial surf paddle out will be held at One Mile Beach to celebrate his life.
Life Cut Short
While the circumstances around his death are still under investigation, it's clear that Chris Davidson's life was cut terribly short. At just 45 years old, he still had so much to give to the sport and fans of surfing.
He will be remembered not just for his surfing accomplishments, but for his flamboyant personality and larger-than-life presence both in and out of the water. The surfing world has lost one of its most colorful characters far too soon.
Conclusion
The sudden passing of Chris Davidson is a tragedy that has shaken the surfing community. Davidson was a prodigious talent who made his mark by defeating the legendary Kelly Slater as a teenager. His skill, charisma and passion for surfing will not be forgotten. While the circumstances around his death are still unclear, one thing is certain - surfing has lost one of its brightest stars and Australian sports has lost an iconic athlete. Chris Davidson's legacy will live on through those he inspired.
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