BYRON BAY surfer Matt Wilkinson survived the sudden death elimination round at the Billabong Pro in Tahiti.
Wilkinson and former Lennox Head resident Tyler Wright are currently leading the World Surf League rankings on the championship tour.
A second round elimination could have proved costly for the 27-year-old.
He had to overcome wildcard Hira Teriinatoofa while John John Florence is nipping at heels on the leader board.
“I came into Tahiti really psyched,” Wilkinson said.