In a harrowing encounter at J-Bay, professional surfer Mick Fanning faced a life-threatening situation when a great white shark attacked him during a competition. On July 19, 2015, while waiting for a wave, Fanning felt a sudden tug on his leg rope, followed by a violent jolt beneath him. Instinctively, he shielded himself with his board, only to be struck by the shark's tail, which sent him into a panic.

As the shark circled back, Fanning fought back with punches and kicks, ultimately managing to break free and swim towards his fellow surfer, Jules, who was unaware of the danger.

Key moments from the incident include:

• Fanning screamed for Jules to "Go in!" as he desperately tried to warn his friend.
• When rescued by a jetski, Fanning expressed disbelief at the attack, realizing he had survived a potentially fatal encounter.
• On shore, Fanning was met with emotional reactions from friends and fellow surfers, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

After the attack, Fanning watched footage of the incident, realizing the shark was over three-and-a-half meters long. This shocking revelation left him feeling vulnerable and grateful to be alive.

In an emotional moment, Fanning requested someone to call his mother, who had been watching the live broadcast. He later reflected on the experience during an interview, stating he was relieved to be safe and happy to forgo competition that day, emphasizing the importance of his loved ones.

The incident not only showcased Fanning's bravery but also the intense bond within the surfing community as they rallied around him in the aftermath.