It's not just the state of wakeboarding, but the state of that particular type of wakeboarder. Guys that aren't doing Cory, Harley, and Dowdy level of technical tricks can't compete in contests, which leaves only videos. History has showed us that the guy that can't make the podium (or close) at contests aren't going to make the big bucks, and will have a shorter career. Think Randall...... And even if they do, they have a very limited amount of time to grab the money before the level rises and makes you less relevant. Look at how fast Rusty went from dominating contests to never seeing the podium again the year Cory started landing doubles on tour. By the time he recovered from his leg injury the sport jumped what seemed like 5 years. Thankfully he built a name through the contest scene (like Murray, Parks, Harf) that will fill his pockets for many years hopefully.
I watched JT grow up and have always supported and rooted for him. He changed our perspective on what style really is. But in my opinion the non-contest rider can't get as far.
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