Sport

Professional surfer escapes shark attack on live TV

Professional surfer escapes shark attack on live TV

An Australian surfer managed to escape a shark attack while competing in an event streamed live around the world.

Mick Fanning was knocked off his surfboard during the final of the J-Bay Open in South Africa on Sunday.

The 34-year-old Australian told Fox Sports he punched the shark in the back to escape.

“I was just sitting there, I was just about to start moving and then I felt something ... get stuck in my leg rope,” Fanning said. "I instantly just jumped and he kept coming at my board. I was just kicking and screaming. I saw fins. I was waiting for the teeth. I punched him in the back!"

The tournament was called off in the wake of the incident.

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