But outside all the victories Andy's life started to take a turn and his fire was starting to go out. He left the sport in search of himself and took it all back to basics. "i surf because... it keeps my life at an even keel, without it I would tip into oblivion"- ANDY IRONS. Watch this revealing clip of one of surfings most colourful dynamic characters.
The 32-year-old was reported to be suffering from dengue fever and had missed a flight home to Hawaii when he was found by hotel staff. Earlier this week Irons, a legend in the surfing world, had pulled out of a world surfing tour event in Puerto Rico because of illness.
Andrew Flitton, a spokesman for Irons' main sponsor Billabong, told Australia's Surfing Life that Irons first flew from Puerto Rico to Miami, where he spent two days on an IV drip. He then insisted on returning to Hawaii to see his own doctor, but became sick and missed a connecting flight from Dallas, the magazine reported. The Association of Surfing Professionals confirmed his death.
"He had reportedly been battling with dengue fever, a viral disease," the ASP said in a statement.
Irons, who was the only surfer to challenge nine-times world champion Kelly Slater, leaves behind a heavily pregnant wife. A statement from his family thanked his friends and fans for their support, and asked for privacy "during this time of profound loss".
Irons had won a total of 19 world tour victories and was crowned world champion in 2002, 2003 and 2004. He was the only professional surfer to win at every location on the world tour.
Andy Irons vs Kelly Slater
His most recent tour victory was in September, when he won the Billabong Pro in Tahiti. Dave Prodan, ASP international media manager, said that Irons' death was a massive blow to the sporting community.
"This is in my opinion one of the most devastating losses, not just to the surfing world, but to the international sporting community in general," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
"Obviously Andy was more than just a three-time ASP world champion. He was a hero to literally millions of kids who surfed and who didn't surf around the world, and to grown-ups as well.
"I can't imagine the impact this is going to have but it's certainly something that we will feel the world over for many years to come."
Andy Irons, who grew up on Maui, was known for his powerful and stylish surfing. Mr Prodan said: "I think people will remember Andy for his unparalleled ability and overall comprehensive approach to surfing. "He never compromised anything, whether it be his approach, or his competitive tactics or anything."
Andy Irons - Surfing with Style!
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