In the dynamic world of professional surfing, few names shine as brightly as Caroline Marks. At just 22 years old, this American phenom has already amassed a remarkable collection of accolades, firmly establishing herself as a dominant force on the waves and a captivating presence off them. From Olympic gold medals to World Surf League championships and multiple appearances in the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Marks embodies the spirit of a modern athletic icon.
A Meteoric Rise: From Prodigy to Champion
Born on February 14, 2002, Caroline Marks, hailing from Boca Raton, Florida, showed early promise in the sport. Her professional surfing journey began at an incredibly young age, making her brand debut in 2015. By just 15, she had already carved out a unique place in history as the youngest person ever to compete in a World Surf League (WSL) event. This early start set the stage for a career defined by groundbreaking achievements and an undeniable passion for the sport.
Those who witnessed her early career described her with a mix of awe and admiration. At sixteen, she was already hailed as a "bad ass," possessing "the worldliness of someone in their mid twenties, the grit of a seasoned athlete, and the realness of a teenage girl." This unique blend of maturity, tenacity, and youthful authenticity quickly made her a fan favorite and a formidable competitor.
Her dedication and talent translated into tangible success, earning her multiple national championships before she even reached her twenties. Marks herself has shared that her competitive spirit, fueled by a sibling rivalry with her two brothers, Luke and Zach, has been a significant driving force behind her success. She truly "loves surfing almost as much as she loves to win."
Conquering the World and the Olympics
The year 2023 marked a pivotal moment in Caroline Marks's career as she clinched the prestigious 2023 World Surf League Women's World Tour Champion title. This monumental achievement solidified her status as the best female surfer on the planet, a testament to years of hard work, strategic prowess, and unparalleled skill on the waves.
However, her triumphs didn't stop there. Caroline Marks has also etched her name into Olympic history. She competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Summer Games in July 2021 and, more recently, brought home the ultimate prize: an Olympic gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Her performance in Teahupo'o, Tahiti, was nothing short of spectacular, including winning her first-round heat with an impressive score of 17.93, the highest recorded in that round. Getting into a barrel in the women's gold medal final was a highlight of her dominant performance, adding an Olympic gold to her growing list of achievements that already included ISA world junior champion and WSL world champion.
These victories highlight not just her exceptional talent but also her ability to perform under immense pressure on the world's biggest stages. At a mere 22 years old, she is "racking up the accolades, stuffing her proverbial trophy room to the absolute max, when it comes to surf world triumphs."
A Stunning Presence in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit
Beyond her athletic prowess, Caroline Marks has also made a significant splash in the world of fashion and media, particularly through her features in the iconic Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Her debut came in 2020, when she traveled to Turks and Caicos for the shoot, captured beautifully by photographer James Macari. In these stunning photos, Marks looked completely at home, even with a surfboard underfoot, as she took on the waves, showcasing her natural grace and athleticism.
Her appearance in the 2020 issue, alongside fellow surf stars Courtney Conlogue and Malia Manuel, marked a new chapter in her public profile. It was an opportunity for the world to see the professional surfer in a different light, celebrating her "amazing body" not just as an athlete but as a confident and inspiring woman. She was seen posing on the beach wearing a black string two-piece, a preview that thrilled her fans.
Caroline Marks's connection with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit continued to grow. Following her Olympic gold medal win, she made a highly anticipated return for the 2025 SI Swimsuit edition. This marks her second time gracing the pages of the prestigious magazine, a testament to her enduring appeal and influence. The Red Bull Foam Wreckers tour in Cocoa Beach even saw her equally stunning in the shoot as she is on the water.
Her inclusion in the 2025 roster alongside other influential athletes like Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee, and Gabby Thomas further cements her status as a multifaceted star. These features allow her to share her "Sports Illustrated Swimwear Issue photoshoot adventure" with her 315K followers on Instagram (@caroline_markss), where she regularly posts snippets of her life, including her surfing triumphs and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
The Essence of Caroline Marks
Caroline Marks is more than just a surfer; she's a symbol of youthful determination and excellence. With 1,012 posts and 1,205 following on her Instagram, she maintains a strong connection with her fanbase, sharing her journey as an "Olympic Gold Medalist 🏄♀️ World Surfing Champion." Business inquiries are directed to MParsons@img.com, highlighting her growing brand and commercial appeal.
Her story is one of consistent achievement, from becoming the youngest to compete in the WSL to her recent Olympic and World Tour victories. She has been featured in various media, including a trailer for "That's Caroline," showcasing her life and career. Whether she's posing for a portrait in Laguna Beach or battling for a medal in a heat, Marks exemplifies dedication and a deep love for her sport.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Caroline Marks continues to accumulate triumphs, her future in professional surfing and beyond looks incredibly bright. Her ability to seamlessly transition from intense competition to high-profile media appearances speaks volumes about her versatility and appeal. She is a true inspiration, demonstrating that with talent, hard work, and an unwavering spirit, it's possible to achieve extraordinary success at a young age.
Summary: Caroline Marks is a highly accomplished American professional surfer, born February 14, 2002. She is the 2023 World Surf League Women's World Tour Champion and an Olympic gold medalist from the Paris 2024 Games, having also competed in Tokyo 2020. Marks made history as the youngest female to compete in a WSL event and is recognized for her "bad ass" competitive spirit and love for winning. Beyond surfing, she is a prominent figure in media, notably appearing in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2020 and returning for the 2025 edition, where she is celebrated for her athleticism and stunning presence. With a strong social media following, Caroline Marks continues to be a leading icon in both the surfing world and broader pop culture.
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