As Tatiana Weston-Webb from Brazil and Brisa Hennessy of Costa Rica competed in a semi-final match, the huge marine mammal breached in a mesmerising spectacle for both competitors and spectators.
Paris 2024 surfing competitions have been held in Teahupo’o, on the French Polynesian island.
Whales gather around the islands during mating, birthing and migration season.
Weston-Webb went on to win the semi-final before taking home a silver medal.
