Shark attack survivor Mick Fanning devastated by brother’s death while competing at surfing world championships

Australian star surfer Mick Fanning said he was dealing with the “devastating” sudden death of his brother while challenging for a fourth world title, capping a traumatic year in which he survived a shark attack.

The 34-year-old is competing at the title-deciding Pipe Masters in Hawaii, the climax of a gruelling global season with Fanning in contention to be crowned world champion alongside Brazilians Adriano de Souza and Gabriel Medina.

He progressed to the fourth round on Wednesday, soon after being told of his older brother Peter's death, reportedly in his sleep in Australia.

I am so grateful for the incredible love and well wishes that have come my way since learning of my eldest brother's passing this morning. Like all my big brothers, Peter will always be a hero to me. I have so many great memories of the good times we have all spent together and they will be with me forever. We recently caught up and he told me how proud he was of me and how much he loves watching me compete. Today was one of the most challenging days of my life but I knew I could find the strength to take part in the final event of the season because that’s what Pete would want. I also want to give special thanks to my other brothers – my friends on tour – for their support, I couldn’t have got through today without them. I would ask for some privacy on this matter while we come to terms with this devastating loss. Big thanks from our entire family. Tell the special people in your life you love them and give them a hug.

A photo posted by Mick Fanning (@mfanno) on

In an emotional television interview after emerging from the waves, Fanning broke down as spoke about dealing with some “personal” issues, and later posted a moving tribute to his brother on Instagram, calling the loss “devastating”.

“Peter will always be a hero to me. I have so many great memories of the good times we have all spent together and they will be with me forever,” he said, adding that the pair had only recently caught up.

“Today was one of the most challenging days of my life but I knew I could find the strength to take part in the final event of the season because that's what Pete would want.

“I would ask for some privacy on this matter while we come to terms with this devastating loss.”