Mick Fanning has posted a heartfelt message on social media thanking Julian Wilson who paddled to his aid when the three time world champion was attacked by a shark, and also hinting he may surf again.
Fanning who has been hailed “a badass hero” across social media and in news headlines around the globe managed to beat off the shark by “punching him in the back” before water patrol pulled him out of the water.
Wilson, who was competing against Fanning in the final of the JBay Open, instantly attempted to reach Fanning, paddling as hard as he could to help his mate, but was pulled out of the water by patrol also.
He broke down in tears during an interview straight after the incident, saying he wished he could have reached his mate earlier.
“So thankful to be able to have this hug with @julian_wilson this man came to my aid like a warrior,” wrote Fanning on instagram overnight, posted with the now iconic image of the two embracing after the incident.
The photograph was taken by surf photographer Kirstin Scholtz.
Fanning also hinted he may surf again in the post, after yesterday claiming he would be happy to stay out of the water.
“In our sport we always think about sharks and know we are in their domain.
“Jbay is an incredible place and I will go back one day. Thanks to the @wsl announcers and water patrol for being on top of us and the care they showed us and to all my friends on tour that were by my side. Love you all.”
Both Fanning and Wilson’s mothers have spoken of their relief the two came out of the water relatively unscathed.
“All we’ve gotta do is be grateful that they’re coming home with all their bits, you know – the other scenario isn’t even going to enter my head,” said Nola Wilson on the Today Show this morning.
