In the electrifying atmosphere of the Poland Darts Open in Krakow, Cameron Menzies delivered a performance that left fans buzzing and his opponent stunned. The Scottish darts sensation, currently ranked world number 29, dismantled James Wade with a resounding 6-0 victory in the last 32, showcasing pinpoint accuracy and unyielding focus. Menzies averaged an impressive 99.10 throughout the match, converting 50 percent of his doubles with clinical precision. This dominant display marked a triumphant return to form for Menzies, who had been grappling with personal and professional challenges in recent months.
The win was particularly poignant given Menzies’ rocky start to 2026. Fresh off a disappointing exit at the World Darts Championship earlier in the year, where he suffered a first-round defeat to debutant Charlie Manby, Menzies had been battling the aftermath of a self-inflicted injury. In a moment of raw frustration immediately after that loss, he repeatedly punched his drinks table at Alexandra Palace, causing severe damage to his hand. Blood poured from the wound, and the incident escalated to the point where he required medical attention, including a breathing tube during treatment. Reflecting on the ordeal, Menzies admitted it was a massive mistake in his life. He revealed that the injury has left him with basically no feeling in his fingers anymore, a lingering consequence that has made every throw a test of resilience. You can see the scar, he noted, emphasizing that he has to live with the repercussions of that impulsive act.
The road back hasn’t been easy. In the first four Players Championship events of the year, Menzies managed just one victory, and he failed to qualify for the prestigious World Masters. He even contemplated quitting the sport altogether, overwhelmed by the emotional and physical toll. To win a game meant a lot to me, as it’s been a hard struggle, he shared, highlighting the mental battles he’s endured. No words can explain what I felt at that time, waking up with a breathing tube for a game of darts. I was stupid and I have to deal with that. Despite these setbacks, Menzies pushed through, securing a 6-4 win over Richie Edhouse in the opening round of the Poland event to set up his clash with Wade.
James Wade, a seasoned veteran and a force in the darts world, entered the match in strong form. As a finalist in both the 2025 UK Open and Grand Slam, Wade has been enjoying a resurgence, proving his enduring talent on the oche. Yet, against Menzies, he couldn’t find his rhythm, falling victim to the Scot’s relentless barrage. The match concluded with Menzies hitting the winning double, but what followed was an emotional moment that captured the hearts of onlookers. The two players shared a heartfelt exchange on stage, a gesture that spoke volumes about the camaraderie beneath the competition.
Menzies later opened up about the depth of their interaction, revealing that it stemmed from a prior connection. Earlier in the year, during an exhibition event in Twickenham, Wade had approached him with genuine concern. He was the first darts player that actually asked me, ‘How do you feel?’ Menzies recounted. He said, ‘I don’t want your fake answers. How do you feel?’ Wade, who has faced his own personal challenges over the years, understood the weight of such struggles. He gave me a proper look in the eyes and asked me the question, ‘Mate, are you okay?’ Menzies responded with raw honesty: You’re the first person to have genuinely meant it. Not just the superficial ‘Are you okay’ questions that often ring hollow in the high-pressure world of professional sports. He genuinely spoke to me, shook my hand, looked straight in my eyes, and went, ‘Is everything okay?’ So I told him.
This vulnerability added a layer of humanity to the rivalry. Menzies expressed deep respect for his opponent, acknowledging Wade’s legacy in the sport. I have a lot of respect for James, he said. He’s a great darts player, and I do think he’s unlucky not to be in the Premier League. That will make him a better player again, because there’s no denying that his legacy is there for a reason. In a lighthearted twist to their post-match moment, Menzies attempted to embrace Wade in a celebratory cuddle, only for Wade to playfully punch him in the ribs. He doesn’t like cuddles! Menzies laughed, turning what could have been an awkward encounter into a memorable anecdote.
Looking ahead, Menzies’ journey in the Poland Darts Open continues with a third-round matchup against Wessel Nijman, who earlier upset Gary Anderson with a convincing 6-2 win. Nijman, known for his sharp finishing and composure under pressure, will be a formidable challenge. For Menzies, this tournament represents more than just points on the board—it’s a testament to perseverance. At the moment I have no feeling in one side of my finger and the other, but I hold the dart the other side so I am kind of lucky, he explained, underscoring his determination to adapt and overcome.
In the fast-paced, unforgiving arena of professional darts, stories like Menzies’ remind us of the human element behind the tungsten tips. His 6-0 thrashing of Wade wasn’t just a scoreline; it was a statement of comeback, fueled by genuine support from peers like Wade. As Menzies steps up to the oche once more, fans will be watching closely, rooting for the underdog who’s turning pain into power. This victory could be the spark that reignites his career, proving that even in the face of adversity, a true champion finds a way to hit the bullseye.
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