Surfing champion Mick Fanning's brother Peter dies, aged 43
The brother of Australian surfing champion Mick Fanning had died, just hours before Fanning paddled out to compete for the world championship title at Pipeline in Hawaii.
Peter Fanning, 43, died in his sleep, according to Surfer Magazine, although no further details were available about the circumstances of his death.
Fanning was reportedly told of his brother's death before entering the water for the third round of the Pipe Masters at Hawaii.
Despite the tragic news, Fanning went on to win the third and fourth rounds of the event, on Hawaii's North Shore.
In an emotional interview after his heat four win against Kelly Slater and John John Florence, Fanning broke down as he said he was dealing with some "personal" issues, although he did not say what they were.
"It's been a huge day. Just got some personal stuff going on at home, and just yeah, it's sort of heavy to talk about right now," he said, his voice wavering.
Fanning then hugged the World Surf League commentator who was interviewing him, before leaving the podium.
Rip Curl, which sponsors Fanning, confirmed that Peter had passed away.
"This is a sad and unfortunate incident and is a private matter for the family to deal with," a Rip Curl spokesperson told the ABC.
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