Chris Davidson, pictured at the Billabong Pro in Bakio, Spain, in 2003
(Picture: AFP via Getty Images)A former professional surfer has reportedly died after being punched outside a pub in Australia.
Chris Davidson - heralded as “one of the most naturally talented surfers in Australia” - was allegedly punched in the town of South West Rocks, New South Wales, on Saturday evening before falling and striking his head on the pavement.
Officers from Mid North Coast Police District attended shortly after 11pm, when they are said to have found the 45-year-old father-of-two unconscious.
He was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to Kempsey Hospital, where he died.
A 42-year-old man was arrested less than two hours later and charged with assault causing death, New South Wales Police confirmed in statement.
Rest In Peace, Chris Davidson. ❤️
— Rip Curl (@ripcurl) September 26, 2022
A supremely talented surfer who inspired a generation when he burst onto the scene as a teenager.
Our condolences, love and respect to Davo’s family, friends and the communities affected by his loss.
📸 Ted Grambeau / Kirstin Scholtz pic.twitter.com/nsDBOBBGaf
He was due to appear before Port Macquarie Bail Court on Sunday.
News of Davidson’s death has been met with an outpouring of grief from the surfing community.
The star grew up surfing at North Narrabeen in northern Sydney, before competing on the world professional surfing tour in 2010 and 2011.
On Instagram, Surfing Australia paid tribute to Davidson, affectionately known as ‘Davo’, writing: “Davo was an incredibly talented surfer and a true individual in our sport and community.
“Our thoughts go out to his two children, friends and family at this time.”
Elsewhere on social media, he has been remembered as “a supremely talented surfer who inspired a generation”, and “one of the most naturally talented surfers in Australia”.
