Stephen Bunting, the 40-year-old darts maestro known as “The Bullet,” has cemented his place among the sport’s elite with a stellar 2025 season. A former Lakeside world champion and the 2024 PDC Masters winner, Bunting’s resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable, with five titles this year and a climb to world number four. But it’s his wisdom on the crucial art of finishing that’s capturing attention, especially after his candid advice to aspiring players. In a recent YouTube video, Bunting delivered a blunt yet profound lesson: “If you can’t hit a double, it doesn’t matter how big you score.” With his signature no-nonsense style, he’s urging players to prioritize precision on doubles over flashy scoring, offering a blueprint for success under pressure that could shape the next generation of darts talent.
## The Importance of Doubles
Bunting’s message is clear: in darts, scoring massive triples is meaningless without the ability to close out a leg. “For amateurs just starting out, I’ll say this straight away – doubles are the most important part of any game,” he emphasized. His point is simple yet critical: even a perfect 180 means little if you falter at the double. During his own practice sessions, Bunting dedicates significant time to honing his finishing, particularly on his trusted doubles 16, tops, and the bullseye. “My favourite doubles are tops and double 16. At the start of any practice session, whether I’m at home or at a venue, I’ll throw 15 darts at double 16 and 15 darts at tops, then see how many I hit,” he revealed. If the results fall short, he repeats the drill, a testament to his relentless work ethic.
This disciplined approach stems from years of experience, including a standout 2025 campaign where he reached the PDC World Championship semi-finals and won two World Series titles in Bahrain and the Nordic Masters. His advice resonates with players at all levels, from pub leagues to the professional circuit. Bunting stresses that the first dart in a finishing visit is pivotal, as an awkward landing can block the target and complicate the shot. “The first dart is really important to me. If it lands awkwardly and blocks the bed, you’ve got to adjust – sometimes throw a bit harder or work around it,” he explained, highlighting the need for adaptability under pressure.
## A Resurgent Star
Bunting’s resurgence in 2025 is a story of grit and redemption. After a tough return to the Premier League, where he struggled to adjust to large venues, he silenced critics with a string of victories, including a fifth Players Championship title in Milton Keynes. “I’ve played exceptional, to be fair,” he said after defeating Jonny Clayton in a thrilling final. His confidence is palpable, fueled by consistent 100-plus averages and a knack for hitting 180s at critical moments. “Hitting them at the right time is so important as well,” he noted, underscoring his ability to deliver when it counts.
His journey hasn’t been without challenges. A grueling schedule, including a whirlwind trip from Auckland to Milton Keynes with just two days at home, left him “very drained.” Yet, his passion for the game shines through. “I’m playing the best darts of my life, so why can’t it happen?” he asked, eyeing a televised major title to cap his remarkable year. Bunting’s form has positioned him as a dark horse for the upcoming World Grand Prix in Leicester, where his finishing prowess could prove decisive. “Winning breeds confidence. The more I win, whether that be a tournament or just a few matches, you take a lot of confidence away from that,” he said, radiating optimism.
## Lessons for Aspiring Players
Bunting’s advice extends beyond technique to mindset. He advocates tracking progress meticulously, suggesting players note their double-hitting success rates to measure improvement. “You can even write it down on a piece of paper – how many you hit – and then try to improve on that number over time,” he advised. This structured approach, combined with relentless repetition, is the backbone of his practice routine. For Bunting, staying calm under pressure is non-negotiable. “If you can’t hit a double, it doesn’t matter how big you score,” he reiterated, a mantra that encapsulates his philosophy.
His journey from the BDO to the PDC, where he’s now a fan favorite with his lively walk-on to *Sweet Caroline*, reflects his growth as both a player and a personality. “Some people don’t watch us all year round, but they watch me there and think I don’t deserve a spot,” he said of his Premier League critics, adding, “I think I’ve shown with the World Series wins and my other performances that I can play my best at the top level.” His semi-final run at the 2025 World Championship, where he averaged 113 against Luke Littler despite a 6-1 loss, proved his mettle.
## A Legacy in the Making
As Bunting prepares for the World Grand Prix, his focus on doubles and mental fortitude sets him apart. His advice to “throw as many darts at doubles as possible” is a call to action for players aiming to elevate their game. With a cult-like following and a career-best season, Bunting is not just chasing titles but inspiring others to master the art of finishing. Whether it’s double 16, tops, or the bullseye, his golden rules offer a timeless lesson: in darts, precision under pressure is the true mark of a champion.
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