Two-time world champion Gabriel Medina is welcomed by a crowd in Maresias | surf

Arriving at the International Surfing Plaza, a crowd was waiting for the surfer. On the way to the stage to welcome the surfer, Medina made smiles and cuddles to the fans. When he took the microphone in his hands, he thanked the audience for his affection.

– Thanks for the presence, for the fans. I am very happy to be received like this. I am only a boy from Maresias, who has dreamed a lot. I trained a lot and, thanks to God, I was able to fulfill my dream. I am very grateful for each message. I am even without words. My feeling for Maresias. It's an honor to take this flag out. I'm happy to have represented you, "said the surfer to the public.

Gabriel Medina, world champion in 2014 and 2018, is n Maresias and still resides on the beach of São Sebastião, on the north coast of São Paulo. The first waves that surfed were in Maresias.

– Here is a place where I have always lived. I spend the year traveling, but that's where I come back. It's here that it all started. Where I have my family, my friends. My training is here and in Paúba. I remember that I surfed here, in the square, during all my childhood. To be here, to be received in this way is special. It's a place I'll never forget, "he said.

] This is the first time that the surfer has organized a party in Maresias to celebrate this world title.In 2014, a reception was even organized by the San Sebastian prefecture.However, the heavy rains caused flooding in Maresias and the celebration had to be canceled