The world watched with baited breath as Sao Paulo's Adriano de Souza entered into what many considered to be a make-or-break career year in 2008. The youngest-ever ASP World Junior Champion (at 16) carried with him the weight of the Brazilian nation, and delivered with style, punch at bit, finishing ASP World No. 7.

Following De Souza's meteoric rise at the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships at Sydney's iconic North Narrabeen beach, the young Brazilian went on to smash the ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) the following year and easily qualify for the elite ASP World Tour.

However, the transition to tackling the world's best surfers in the world's best waves would prove no easy feat as Adriano finished 20th and 28th in 2006 and 2007 respectively. With a generational transition taking place for South American surfers, Adriano emerged as the new leader in 2008, putting in solid performances in everywhere from Fiji to Lower Trestles, earning a well-deserved Top 10 finish.

The diminutive Brazilian's explosive style sees De Souza as a mighty force on the world stage, and his competitive drive is second to none. Adriano is a born champion and his hunger for an ASP World Title is palpable. Will 2009 be the year?