“I’m just so happy,” Dupont said. “It’s the first time I’ve won a 6-star event and I think it’s the first time a European has won such a big event, so I’m just over the moon right now.”

The stylish natural footer’s first year amongst the ASP top 17 had been difficult and this win was a reward for all her hard work overcoming a serious elbow injury.

“After my injury I had a hard time getting back in the game, and even though it’s a bit late, we’ll see if I can make it back into the qualification zone,” said Dupont. “There’s one more event, and I’m not a quitter. Last year I qualified super late so I still believe and we’ll see what happens in Azores.”

Dupont defeated giant killer a Nage Melamed (HAW) 18 in the final and was quick to thank her support team at the event. “I’m so happy to have such a great team in France all the girls were rooting for me so I’m super happy,” Dupont said. “I’ve had a great week here with the Billabong team, there was just a great atmosphere in the group with Nathalie my team manager being super supportive.

Dupont’s thoughts now turn to the final 6-Star event in the Azores next weekend, her final chance to qualify for the 2013 ASP Women World Championship Tour. Either way one of the world’s best surfers has signalled she is back and is now guaranteed to be one of the major contenders.

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