This was published 11 years ago
Fanning's terrifying Great White shark attack
WWOS staff
It just goes to show how unlucky Mick Fanning was.
There are 70 to 100 shark attacks worldwide every year, 5 to 15 result in death.
"I had this instinct that someone was behind me," he said.
Shark attacks are a terrifying prospect that every Australian ponders during a dip in the sea, but how dangerous are they really?
While Mick Fanning's brush with a Great White risks amplifying fears around the predators, it's important to note that the chances of dying from a shark attack are about 1 in 3,700,000.
Here's 20 things that you might never have considered that you're far more likely to die from.
He was actually knocked from his board as others came to his rescue.
Water patrol crews were there within seconds.
Fanning revealed afterwards that he punched the shark 'a couple of times'.
He was clearly distressed and the competition was called off.
Wilson was hailed for his bravery in paddling toward Fanning to help.
"I'm happy to not even compete ever again," he said.
View more galleries
Most viewed in Sport
Opetaia vs Mikaelian RECAP: Polarising US star knocks out Benn, Opetaia retains gold
Sabalenka left heartbroken as new world No.1 ends her US Open reign
Hynes blasts ‘embarrassing’ stadium saga as empty seats expose sorry sight
NRL finals RECAP: DCE shanks golden opportunity after Cleary’s ice-cold winner
