Kelly Slater is just one heat win away from claiming his ninth world surfing title after making a successful start to the Billabong Pro Mundaka.

Slater progressed straight to round three after posting a 16.33 to easily account for fellow American Taylor Knox (6.16) and Brit Reubyn Ash (3.50) in his opening heat today.

Slater's heat total was the second highest of the day and the only way he can be denied another crown is if he fails to advance past round three and Australia's world No.2 Taj Burrow wins the event.

Slater came extremely close to clinching the title in France last week when he lost the final to Australian Adrian Buchan and the American admitted the tension was taking its toll.

"I just want to try to win one more heat and get it done," he said.

While Slater seems squarely focused on the next heat, Burrow has his eyes on the Billabong Pro Mundaka title.

Burrow top-scored today with a 16.34 heat total.

"I just want to win an event and this one would be great," Burrow said.

"It seems like there is a lack of motivation from everyone on tour. People are going home, they're over it.

"It just feels like it is over with Kelly wrapping up the title. I'm just trying to capitalise on that and win these things."

AAP