A shocking display of frustration erupted at the William Hill World Darts Championship on Tuesday after Scottish player Cameron Menzies lost to 20-year-old debutant Charlie Manby 3-2.The world No. 26’s unexpected first-round defeat triggered an outburst that included damaging the dartboard and repeatedly striking the table, resulting in a hand injury [[2]]. The incident, which is now under review by the Darts Regulation Authority, has sparked widespread reaction within the darts community and raised questions about player conduct [[1]].
A stunning upset at the William Hill World Darts Championship in Alexandra Palace on Tuesday quickly devolved into a shocking display of frustration from Cameron Menzies. Despite a strong start and winning the first set, the world No. 26 ultimately fell to debutant Charlie Manby in a 3-2 thriller, ending his tournament run almost before it began.
The loss triggered an outburst from Menzies that has sent ripples through the darting world.
After Manby completed the comeback victory, Menzies lost his composure. He first jammed his hand into the dartboard’s pyrotechnics, halting the display, then repeatedly slammed his fist into the table with such force that blood visibly sprayed.
See the video at the top of this story.
The images from Alexandra Palace are now circulating widely and drawing reaction from across the darts community.
“I apologize for reacting the way I did. There’s no excuse, but I’ve had a lot on my mind lately, and I guess it just became too much,” Menzies said in a post-match press conference.
He also revealed a recent family tragedy. “It hasn’t been an easy time for me, since my uncle Gary recently passed away. I saw him four days before he died, and he gave me a look that showed how much he was thinking of me.”
Several top players have commented on the incident. Peter Wright, who sported a green beard for his own World Championship match, was asked if he had any advice:
“Do it backstage.”
PDC Managing Director Matt Porter confirmed that the incident has been reported to the Darts Regulation Authority for review. According to The Sun, Menzies faces potential disqualification.
