"What an incredible week," she continued. "To come back and really fight hard for this one is so much more rewarding. I mean, I've loved every minute of every world title, but this one was just such a challenge, I think, because all of the girls are surfing so well. I really had to give it 200 percent, every single heat that I went out in, so I feel really proud of this moment."

Gilmore also predicted multiple rivalries throughout the ranks of the Top 17 in 2012 and they certainly developed, which has made this year one of the most riveting in a long time. Before Saturday's all-out war of a final, the ever-laid back Wright said she'd "just go out and try stuff." Despite her nonchalance on land, she adopted a "do or die" mentality in the water, turning the 35-minute heat into un-petit air show. Gilmore looked right at home in the 4-foot D'bah-esque conditions at Biarritz's La Grande Plage on Saturday. When she had all but clenched the win, Wright effortlessly pulled out an 8.0 -- just in case anyone needed reminding that she was still present. Unfortunately for her, it wouldn't be enough to climb out of the combo hole.

Gilmore also had the unenviable task of conquering Carissa Moore, who I'd venture to say put on her best performance this year. Earlier, Wright had to overcome fiercely motivated Courtney Conlogue and Coco Ho. Ho caused a major upset when she eliminated second-seeded Sally Fitzgibbons in the second quarterfinal.

Up until today, any of the top four could have emerged at the apex of women's surfing, and just because our world champion has been decided, that doesn't mean the final Tour event is moot.

The Nike U.S. Open of Surfing (July 30-August 5) will still have a bearing on the women's ranking and total prize money. Iconic and notoriously fickle Huntington Beach, Calif., will provide an exciting venue for the conclusion of the women's Tour.