Sebastian Steudtner

Sebastian Steudtner (born 4 May 1985) is a surfer and champion in big wave surfing. As of 2025 he holds the world record for the tallest measured wave ever surfed, at , on October 29, 2020.

Early life

Steudtner grew up in Germany, Nuremberg being his hometown. At age 16 he moved to Hawaii, on his own and with only the reluctant acquiescence of his parents, to pursue a surfing career.

Career

Steudtner won the 2010, 2015 and 2021 WSL Biggest Wave awards.

On October 29, 2020, in Nazaré, Portugal, he surfed a tall wave, the tallest measured wave ever surfed. The record was authenticated by the World Surf League as part of the Red Bull Big Wave Awards.

In 2024, Steudtner surfed a wave measured at at the same location. If officially ratified, it would surpass his own world record of the tallest wave ever surfed.

Personal life Steudtner's girlfriend and tow partner until 2021 was Maya Gabeira, who is the record holder for the tallest wave ever surfed by a woman, at . They continue to support each other professionally.