In a thrilling yet controversial first-round match at the PDC World Darts Championship held at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, Scottish veteran Cameron Menzies suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to 20-year-old English debutant Charlie Manby. The encounter, which showcased high drama on the oche, ended in shocking fashion when Menzies, overwhelmed by frustration, repeatedly punched the underside of the drinks table on stage, resulting in a severe cut to his hand that required hospital treatment.
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions and skill. Menzies, the 26th seed and a seasoned professional known for his powerful throwing, stormed into an early lead by taking the opening set despite missing multiple darts at doubles. He continued his dominance by moving ahead 2-1 in sets, firing in several maximum 180s along the way. However, Manby, nicknamed “Champagne Charlie” for his effervescent style, refused to be intimidated on his World Championship debut. The young talent from Huddersfield fought back fiercely, leveling the sets and forcing a decisive fifth set where nerves played a major role.
Both players squandered numerous opportunities at doubles, heightening the tension under the bright lights and in front of a raucous crowd. Manby, showing remarkable composure for a newcomer, eventually sealed the victory on his seventh match dart, pinning a crucial double to spark wild celebrations. As the teenager thrust his arms in triumph and soaked in the applause, the focus quickly shifted to Menzies’ reaction.
Unable to contain his disappointment, the 36-year-old Scot turned toward the drinks table and unleashed three forceful punches from underneath, sending water bottles tumbling and his darts case flying. Blood quickly appeared on his knuckles, and as he wiped it across his face while exiting the stage, the crowd responded with boos. Referee Kirk Bevins intervened, urging Menzies to compose himself and leave the stage promptly. Menzies briefly raised his hands in acknowledgment to the audience before departing, his hand already bleeding profusely.
Commentators were stunned by the scene. Former Premier League champion Glen Durrant, providing analysis, remarked, “It wasn’t the ending we all want to see. For Cameron Menzies, I think he will regret that for the rest of his life, it wasn’t a good watch.” Durrant also praised the victor, noting, “Charlie Manby is a superstar in the making.”
This defeat marks the second consecutive year Menzies has exited in the first round of the World Championship. Last year, he was reduced to tears following a loss to Leonard Gates amid personal challenges. This time, the emotion manifested differently, but the underlying intensity was evident.
Shortly after the incident, Menzies released a heartfelt statement expressing remorse. “First of all, I would like to apologise for what happened,” he said. “I am sorry that I reacted in the manner that I did. It’s not an excuse, but I have had a lot of things on my mind recently and I suppose it all just became too much at the end. It has not been an easy time for me with my uncle Gary passing away recently. I saw him four days before he died and he gave me a look which told me how much he thought of me. He treated me like a son. Had I won the game against Charlie, my second match would have been on the day of Gary’s funeral and that hasn’t been lost on me in recent days.”
He continued, emphasizing respect for his opponent: “It was the wrong thing to do and I don’t want it to take anything away from Charlie. He played well and deserved his win. This is not how I would like people to view me. Yes, I can get emotional at times, but not like that and that wasn’t right.”
The PDC has confirmed that the incident will be reviewed by the Darts Regulation Authority, though no immediate disciplinary action has been announced. The organization’s chief executive emphasized support for the player’s wellbeing, noting conversations with Menzies and his management team.
Meanwhile, Manby’s triumph stands as a breakout moment. The highly rated youngster demonstrated poise beyond his years, overcoming a seeded opponent in a five-set thriller. His victory propels him into the second round, where he awaits the winner of another matchup, and signals the arrival of yet another promising talent in the sport.
This episode underscores the raw passion that defines professional darts—where the pressure of the biggest stage can evoke profound highs and devastating lows. For Menzies, a player with undeniable talent and a history of emotional investment in the game, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fine line between intensity and control. As the championship continues, fans will hope for more exhilarating darts without such distressing aftermaths.
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