Brazil's Italo Ferreira has stamped himself as a genuine world title contender after a near-perfect performance to win the World Surf League event in Bali.
Ferreira, the Bells Beach winner, claimed his second title of the season and the rankings lead when he defeated Tahiti's Michel Bourez in the final, posting a two-wave total of 18.87 out of 20 to his rival's 9.83.
It came after Ferreira scored a perfect 10 in his semi-final win over South Africa's Jordy Smith, mixing a flawless aerial manoeuvre with a pair of massive turns.
Michel Bourez got the better of Australia's Mikey Wright in their semi-final.
The win helps Ferreira move up two spots to reclaim top spot on the overall standings ahead of countryman Filipe Toledo and Australia's previous leader Julian Wilson, who is third. Bourez climbed three spots to be fourth.
"It's really cool to get back the Jeep leader jersey," Ferreira said. "There are a lot more steps I need to take to win the world title, so I will enjoy this moment, but I want to win more."
"This wave is perfect; it reminds me of my home break.
"I have been paddling out when it's dark every day because I love this wave and I want to get as many as I can."
Wilson was eliminated in the third round in Bali by Wright, whose eventual third-place finish was by far his best result of the season.
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