Durban’s Andre Botha has been praised for his role in rescuing pro surfer Evan Geiselman (USA), who was left unconscious and in a life-threatening situation following a heavy wipeout at Pipeline on Sunday.

The two-time Bodyboarding world champ was the first to reach the unconscious Floridian in the impact zone, and paddled Evan to the beach while administering rescue breaths. Andre was met by lifeguards in the shore break, who took over and resuscitated Evan at the Beach Park, before rushing the goofyfoot to Queens hospital for recovery.

“Thanks to everyone, especially Andre, he was truly Evan’s guardian angel,” said Evan’s brother Eric Geiselman. “Everyone responded so heroically and our family cannot thank them enough. Today we are very blessed to still have Evan with us.”

I honestly get goosebumps when I see this picture of @andre_botha_662 saving @evangeiselman life today at Pipeline. I'm so glad everyone is okay. Andre is truly an amazing human being, and phenomenal athlete. Too proud to call you family. Absolute legend and inspiration! Photo by @mark_01

A photo posted by marck botha (@marckbothaphoto) on Dec 6, 2015 at 11:32pm PST

So proud of my big brother @andre_botha_662 saving a pro surfers life today at Pipe. Andre is a total machine, and I personally feel a lot safer in the water when he is around and am able to push myself that much more. Can tell just from the amount of footage he has got in his first three days on the North Shore that he is a bit abnormal, but in the best way. Super proud and glad to call you my brother and glad you were there to save the day, @andre_botha_662. Big big love and respect, legend! Photo @masheen662

A photo posted by marck botha (@marckbothaphoto) on Dec 6, 2015 at 9:02pm PST