The World Surf League (WSL) added the event in the United Arab Emirates, where homosexuality is illegal, to the calendar for the first time in 2025 – a decision criticised at the time by both Wright’s wife and brother.

Australian world number one Wright, 30, said on Instagram: “I’ve been working with the appropriate teams in the UAE as well as the WSL and am assured that I will be competing in a welcoming and safe environment.”

The WSL said: “The safety and wellbeing of our athletes is paramount. The WSL will always work directly with individual athletes and their teams to ensure they feel safe and secure at each stop, and this remains our priority as we expand into new regions of the world.”

It added: “The WSL is committed to upholding inclusivity and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community. Together with our partners, we have been working closely with Tyler Wright and her team to ensure she feels safe competing in Abu Dhabi.”

The men’s event started at Abu Dhabi’s artificial wave pool on Friday, before the women’s competition begins on Saturday.