Andy signing for fans.

Andy at a GQ shoot.

After assessing the conditions at both the main event site of Mundaka and the back-up spot, Sopelena, the Billabong Pro Mundaka, and the continued quest for Kelly Slater to wrap up world title #9, was called off today.

What was surprising wasn't the poor conditions at a site that ASP surfers have in the past voted on to prevent future contests being held there (the ASP disregarded the vote and continue to hold events at Mundaka). The surprising news was that Mick Fanning withdrew from the event due to a supposed groin injury, and both Andy and Bruce Irons have bowed for personal reasons.

Mick's reasoning makes some sense. He's been struggling this year by his standards, and isn't a fan of Mundaka. Same with Bruce, who is in his curtain call on the WCT. The continued demise of Andy Irons, however, still baffles.

In addition to struggling yet again on the tour, Andy suddenly vanished last week after failing to advance past round one of the Quiksilver Pro France. He never showed up for his round two heat, and now has said he won't be surfing the Billabong Pro Mundaka.

Whether it's the fact that he's been on the tour for 11 years and is experiencing burnout, is frustrated by his current 13th ranking on the tour, is having personal issues, or is having simply too much fun with his hot new wife Lyndie Dupuis (pictures courtesy of GQ Magazine), Andy Irons have been the enigma of the ASP this year. It remains to be seen whether the former three-time world champion can regain his old form.

There will be an 8 am call tomorrow to determine if conditions will be right at the backup site of Sopelena.