Santa Cruz, Portugal, native Maria Salgado has already amassed an impressive list of titles. At just 16 years old, she finished as the highest-ranked Portuguese surfer in the European Pro Junior rankings. She was crowned Champion of the Central Surf Circuit in the Under-18 female category and was the top Portuguese athlete in the WSL Junior Tour, finishing in 5th place. In 2024, she claimed the Under-20 Women's National Championship title at Projunior Santa Cruz, the final event of the Junior Tour. She also secured the prestigious Tiago Pires Award, which recognises Portuguese junior surfers. With such achievements already under her belt, Maria’s future in surfing looks bright.