World No.2 surfer Molly Picklum has booked a spot in the quarter-finals of the El Salvador Pro with a comfortable win over American wildcard Kirra Pinkerton.
The 22-year-old Australian won 12.57 to 11.53 in inconsistent conditions at Punta Roca on Saturday.
"It was definitely not easy," said Picklum.
"All these wildcards are deadly. They've done some damage already.
"Obviously, she's a really good surfer and competitor as well. For me, I try and settle down.
"It's not a rush, 35 minutes. I was stoked they added five minutes on so I could wait and be certain on a couple of waves I'm taking off on.
"Trying to make decisions and take off on waves that make me excited and then just finish them."
With an onshore wind picking up, the competition was called off for the day before the other two remaining Australians, Isabella Nicholls and two-time world champion Tyler Wright, got to contest their round-of-16 heats.
Earlier in the day, current world No.1 Caity Simmers, advanced to her fourth straight quarter-final of the year with a 12.67-11.67 win over 2024 world junior champion Luana Silva from Brazil.
"I was just doing some high lines and having some fun," Simmers said.
"It's been a really great time. Just hanging out with your friends and it's the best thing ever."
