Gabriela Bryan, the defending champion of the Margaret River Pro and current rankings leader, will be Fitzgibbons' next opponent.

Lakey Peterson, ranked just ahead of Fitzgibbons, also survived the elimination round, setting the stage for a continued rivalry in the rankings.

Sally Fitzgibbons, an Australian surfing icon, advanced through the elimination round at the Margaret River Pro, a crucial event for her future on the World Surf League's top tour.

In her heat, Fitzgibbons faced Bettylou Sakura Johnson, who recently won at the Gold Coast Pro, and local surfer Willow Hardy, ultimately finishing second with a score of 8.33, behind Sakura Johnson's 8.84.

Despite challenging conditions with waves reaching 8-10 feet and a broken board, Fitzgibbons secured her spot in the next round against world No.1 Gabriela Bryan.

The competition resumed on May 20, 2025, with large swells at the Margaret River break, featuring wave faces exceeding five meters after two lay days.

After her heat, an emotional Fitzgibbons reflected on the highs and lows of surfing, emphasizing her determination to keep fighting.

Ryan Callinan, another Australian surfer, was eliminated and will move to the Challenger Series after finishing last in his heat, dropping to No.34 in the rankings.

To avoid a third consecutive mid-season cut from the top 10 and secure her place on the Championship Tour for 2026, Fitzgibbons must reach at least the quarter-finals.

Fellow Australians Mikey McDonagh and Winter Vincent successfully advanced to the round of 32 in the competition.

Erin Brooks of Canada and Bettylou Sakura Johnson of Hawaii also advanced to the next round, while local competitor Willow Hardy was eliminated.

Despite not advancing, local surfer Willow Hardy expressed excitement about competing with top surfers at her home break.