Makai McNamara “100%” After Near-Fatal Pipeline Wipeout

Originally posted on SURFER | By Dashel Pierson | Last updated Mar 3, 2025 9:22 AM ET

A little over a week ago, Hawaiian heavyweight Makai McNamara wiped out during an extra-large day at Pipeline, hit his head on the reef, was knocked unconscious, rescued by surfers and lifeguards, brought back to life on the sand, and then transported to the hospital for further treatment.

During that time, according to reports, he was put in a coma to help with the healing.

And now, thankfully, we are pleased to report that Makai has been released from the hospital and, according to his family members, is back to his former self and on the way to a full recovery.

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A post shared by Landon Mcnamara (@landon_mcnamara)

Here’s his brother, winner of the 2024 Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational, Landon:

“Makai @makaimcnamara is 100% healthy, so grateful to have my big brother here. The most mellow McNamara. The Pohaku holding it down through the highs & lows of our family. Grateful to all who saved him from the ocean, to the beach, to the hospital, all the positivity & prayers. was a divinely orchestrated unified effort. I believe god was working through all of you. We live, we learn, we keep on going. Put your best foot forward, lead with love & fight your fears. don’t wait till tomorrow. This moment is all we hold. Revel in it.”

Smiles. Hugs. Good news all around.

Earlier, Makai’s dad Liam took a moment to give a huge thank you to North Shore native and perennial standout, Eli Olson, who was the first to grab Makai during the harrowing incident:

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A post shared by Liam Mcnamara (@liam__mcnamara)

“When he saw Makai very close to losing his life, Eli would not take no for an answer. He would not allow his friend to go he went into beast mode like he does took over…Yes, there is a lot of people involved and yes, they took a team to save Makai’s life, but I’m here to say that Eli thank you so much for just being you cause that’s what you do!!”

Shoutout to Eli, and especially, shoutout to Makai for coming back like a true warrior.

This article first appeared on SURFER and was syndicated with permission.

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