Introduction
Welcome dart enthusiasts, to another thrilling edition of DartsFacts.com. Today, we’re going to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most exciting, nail-biting, and downright legendary darts matches of all time. So, grab your favorite beverage, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of precision, skill, and high-stakes competition.
1. Phil Taylor vs. Raymond van Barneveld, PDC World Championship 2007
Starting off our list is the epic showdown between Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor and Raymond ‘Barney’ van Barneveld at the 2007 PDC World Championship. This match is often hailed as one of the greatest in darts history, with both players at the peak of their game. The match ended with Barney clinching the title in a sudden-death leg, a first in a World Championship final.
2. Michael van Gerwen vs. Rob Cross, PDC World Championship 2018
Next up, we have the electrifying match between Michael van Gerwen and Rob Cross at the 2018 PDC World Championship. Cross, a newcomer at the time, stunned the world by defeating the reigning champion van Gerwen in a thrilling semi-final. This match is a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the sport.
3. Eric Bristow vs. Keith Deller, BDO World Championship 1983
Let’s rewind to 1983, where we witnessed one of the biggest upsets in darts history. Eric ‘The Crafty Cockney’ Bristow, a five-time world champion, was defeated by Keith Deller, a qualifier. Deller’s 138 checkout in the final leg is still considered one of the most memorable moments in the sport.
4. Phil Taylor vs. Mike Gregory, BDO World Championship 1992
This match is remembered for its nail-biting finish. Taylor and Gregory battled it out in a grueling final that went down to the last possible leg. Taylor eventually won his second world title, but not before Gregory missed two darts at double eight for the championship.
5. John Lowe vs. Jocky Wilson, BDO World Championship 1987
John Lowe and Jocky Wilson’s clash at the 1987 BDO World Championship is a classic example of high-stakes darts. Lowe, known for his calm demeanor, managed to keep his cool and defeat the fiery Scotsman Wilson in a thrilling final.
6. Phil Taylor vs. Adrian Lewis, PDC World Championship 2013
This match saw Taylor win his 16th and final world title. The match was a masterclass from ‘The Power’, who showed why he is considered the greatest player of all time. Lewis put up a good fight, but Taylor was simply unstoppable.
7. Raymond van Barneveld vs. Jelle Klaasen, BDO World Championship 2006
This match is remembered for the stunning performance of Jelle Klaasen. The young Dutchman, playing in his first World Championship, defeated the defending champion van Barneveld in a thrilling quarter-final. Klaasen went on to win the title, becoming the youngest ever world champion at the age of 21.
8. Dennis Priestley vs. Phil Taylor, PDC World Championship 1994
This match marked the beginning of Taylor’s dominance in the sport. Priestley, the reigning champion, was defeated by Taylor in a thrilling final. This was Taylor’s first PDC World Championship title, and he would go on to win 15 more.
9. Michael van Gerwen vs. Peter Wright, PDC World Championship 2014
Van Gerwen’s first world title came after a thrilling final against Peter Wright. Despite Wright’s impressive performance, van Gerwen managed to clinch the title, marking the beginning of his reign at the top of the sport.
10. John Part vs. Phil Taylor, PDC World Championship 2003
Our list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the 2003 PDC World Championship final between John Part and Phil Taylor. Part, a Canadian, became the first non-European to win the PDC World Championship, ending Taylor’s eight-year winning streak in the process.
