Originally born in Lisbon, Portugal on March 13, 1980, Tiago Pires, also known by his nickname "Saca," discovered his love for surfing at a very young age. At just 9 years old, he first stepped on a surfboard and immediately felt a connection to the ocean. His natural talent and dedication to the sport quickly became evident as he began competing in local surf competitions.
By the age of 16, Pires had officially joined the national circuit in Portugal, where he had the opportunity to train and compete alongside legendary surfers like José Seabra, who would later become his coach and mentor. Pires's relentless work ethic and fearless approach to the waves caught the attention of the surfing world, and in 1999, he made his debut on the World Qualifying Series (WQS).
Over the next few years, Pires continued to hone his skills and push his limits on the competitive surfing circuit. In 2000, he secured his first WQS victory at Vila Nova de Gaia, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the surfing community. His unique style and powerful maneuvers set him apart from his peers, earning him the respect of fellow athletes and fans alike.
One of Pires's most significant achievements came in 2008 when he became the first male Portuguese surfer to qualify for the World Surf League (WSL) Elite Tour. This milestone was a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft, as well as his unwavering commitment to chasing his dreams.
Throughout his career, Pires has faced off against some of the top surfers in the world, including the likes of Andy Irons and Taj Burrow. His competitive spirit and passion for surfing have earned him a loyal following of fans who admire his tenacity and skill in the water.
As one of the pioneers of Portuguese surfing, Tiago Pires has inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue their own dreams in the sport. His success on the international stage has put Portugal on the map as a powerhouse in the surfing world, paving the way for future generations of talented surfers to follow in his footsteps.