Garrett McNamara Reflects on Life-Changing Wipeout and Newfound Purpose Beyond Big Waves

• Garrett McNamara recalls a devastating 2016 wipeout that changed his life and career outlook.

• The former world-record holder for surfing the biggest wave opens up about injury, depression, and healing.

• McNamara now prioritizes family, mindfulness, and mentorship in surfing.

• His HBO docuseries 100 Foot Wave continues to highlight the highs and lows of big wave surfing.

• The veteran surfer expresses caution about his children following in his footsteps.

A Life-Changing Fall at Mavericks

Big wave surfing icon Garrett McNamara has faced towering swells and global acclaim, but it was a devastating wipeout at Mavericks in 2016 that triggered the deepest transformation of his life.

During that fateful ride south of San Francisco, McNamara shattered his shoulder in ten places. What followed was a grueling recovery, both physical and emotional. “It was a very dark, dark time of our life,” said his wife Nicole in an interview with CNN Sports.

From Depression to Purpose

McNamara admits the injury “totally changed me.” Once motivated by the thrill and external validation of riding giants like the 78-foot wave in Nazaré that earned him a world record in 2011, his mindset has shifted.

“I’ve released the monkey,” he said. “I don’t have to ride every swell everywhere in the world. Now it’s about being present, doing things with purpose and intention.”

Family, Recovery, and New Horizons

Garrett’s journey of healing was as much about inner peace as it was physical endurance. His wife Nicole, who stayed home with their son during the incident, said the injury revealed Garrett was “chasing waves for the wrong reasons.”

Now, the McNamaras have turned the page. Their life together – and that of their children – is more grounded and intentional, though the love for the ocean remains strong.

The couple’s story continues in HBO’s award-winning series 100 Foot Wave, now entering its third season. The show explores the extreme risks and emotional toll of big wave surfing, including tragic losses within their community.

Legacy Through Mentorship

While McNamara remains close to the sport, he’s more focused on mentoring than conquering. “If my son wants to follow in my footsteps, I’ll just make sure he trains harder than anybody.”

He added: “I feel like I’ll be riding big waves ‘til the end, but maybe vicariously through people I’m helping … I’ll be able to drive the jet ski forever.”