Jordy Smith hasn't been on top of the Jeep Leaderboard since leaving J-Bay in 2011. Unfortunately for the South African, he broke his rib in the very next event -- at Teahupo'o -- that year, and surrendered the lead for good in the aftermath. But Sunday at Teahupo'o, six years later, Smith finally returned to the top spot, and he did it the hard way by defeating John John Florence in their Quarterfinal clash at the Billabong Pro Tahiti. It's worth noting that Florence came into their match the heavy favorite. Statistically, he's dominated Smith at Teahupo'o. But Smith seems to be operating from a different playbook this year. After surviving years of injury-plagued seasons, he's surfing smarter, harder and better than ever.
