A statue of Kelly Slater in Cocoa Beach has been fitted with a face mask to guard against damage from the coronavirus, according to officials. The 53-year-old surfing icon, who grew up in the area, is set to compete again after a hiatus. Slater, a Cocoa Beach native, has won 11 world titles and is known for his dominance at events like the 2019 Pipe Masters in Hawaii where he secured his third Vans Triple Crown of Surfing title.
The mask, installed on the statue near the beach, is part of a broader effort to preserve public art amid the pandemic. The statue has become a local landmark, drawing visitors who admire Slater’s legacy. His return to competition comes as he continues to influence the sport he helped shape.
Meanwhile, a surfboard once owned by Slater has been transformed into a piece of art by Derek Gores. The board is on display at the Brevard Zoo in Viera as part of the Bold Boards: Visions of Florida exhibit, which features work by over 25 local artists. The exhibit runs through October 2026.
Slater’s early career began in 1985 when he was 13 years old, posing with trophies in Huntington Beach, California. He would go on to become one of the most decorated surfers in history, with his most recent competition appearance in 2025. Local fans are watching closely as he makes his comeback.