Pro surfer fights off shark during competition in South Africa

WATCH: The terrifying shark attack was broadcast live on TV and the surfer’s mother watched in horror back home in Australia. Aarti Pole reports.

TORONTO — A terrifying encounter was caught on camera Sunday as a surfer came face to face with a great white shark during a competition in South Africa.

Three-time world champion Mick Fanning, 34, was unharmed. The Australian professional surfer was participating in the World Surf League (WSL) J-Bay Open, a contest that takes place in Jeffreys Bay, located on the country’s southeast coast.

Fanning was in the water with his surfboard when he could be seen making a sudden movement, and the shark’s fin nearby. Boats quickly raced to Fanning and pulled him from the water. He was competing in the final when the incident occurred.

WATCH: The video shows three-time world champion Mick Fanning, 34, being attacked by a shark during the World Surf League J-Bay Open contest in South Africa.

“I’m somehow perfectly fine,” Fanning said, after getting back on dry land. “It just kept coming at my board, and I was like, kicking and screaming.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I'm somehow perfectly fine," Fanning said, after getting back on dry land. "It just kept coming at my board, and I was like, kicking and screaming."

Fanning said he punched the shark in an effort to fight it off and that he was “totally tripping out” after the close call.

“I just saw fins,” Fanning told a reporter. “I was waiting for the teeth to come at me as I was swimming.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "I just saw fins," Fanning told a reporter. "I was waiting for the teeth to come at me as I was swimming."

A second shark was reportedly spotted nearby.

WATCH: Mother of surfer attacked by shark describes her ‘terrifying’ ordeal

Immediately after the incident the J-Bay Open was called off for the day as officials considered continuing the final Monday. The WSL later announced the final would not go on.

“We are incredibly grateful that no one was seriously injured today. Mick’s composure and quick acting in the face of a terrifying situation was nothing short of heroic and the rapid response of our Water Safety personnel was commendable — they are truly world class at what they do,” read a statement from WSL officials.

“The safety of our athletes is a priority for the WSL and, after discussions with both Finalists, we have decided to cancel the remainder of competition at the J-Bay Open. We appreciate the ongoing support we have in South Africa and once again want to express our gratitude to the Water Safety Team.”