In a dramatic second-round clash at the PDC World Darts Championship on December 21, 2025, Austria’s Mensur Suljovic secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory over England’s Joe Cullen at Alexandra Palace, but the real story unfolded afterward as the veteran addressed fiery accusations of cheating from his defeated opponent.
The match began promisingly for the 36-year-old Cullen, nicknamed “The Rockstar,” who powered through the opening set with aggressive scoring and a clinical finish. However, the 53-year-old Suljovic, affectionately known as “The Gentle,” steadily found his rhythm, reeling off the next three sets to book his place in the third round. There, a mouthwatering potential showdown with reigning champion Luke Littler awaits, provided the teenage prodigy overcomes his upcoming opponent.
What should have been a straightforward progression turned contentious due to contrasting playing styles. Suljovic’s trademark deliberate pace—long pauses before his first dart, methodical dart retrieval, and enthusiastic celebrations after legs—clearly irked Cullen throughout the low-scoring affair. The Englishman was seen gesturing impatiently, at times sarcastically checking an imaginary watch, while referee Kirk Bevins intervened on at least one occasion, appearing to warn Suljovic about the length of his post-leg celebrations.
The tension peaked after Suljovic clinched the win on double 10. During the handshake, words were exchanged, and as Cullen gathered his equipment to leave the stage, he paused dramatically, turning to deliver a piercing glare at the celebrating Austrian amid the roaring crowd of thousands.
Cullen’s frustration boiled over on social media shortly after, where he posted a scathing message: “If that’s darts, I don’t want no part of it! Always liked Mensur away from the board but that was plain for all to see! I don’t think I’m alone in feeling this way. The old guard will say it’s part of the game but word it how you will – it’s CHEATING! That’s not darts.”
In a composed post-match interview, Suljovic responded directly to the backlash, expressing bewilderment and defending his approach. “I don’t know, what’s his problem? I give him missed doubles, everything. I like Joe Cullen, a very nice guy. I never ever play slow. I do it only for my game. I’m never doing this for him. Sorry Joe, never do this. I love him, man.” He went on to explain his pre-throw routine: “I wait maybe 40 seconds before first dart, but some guys [gestures throwing motion] and my head [gestures almost being hit]. This is not okay.”
When pressed on whether he had personally apologized to Cullen for any perceived disruption, Suljovic was unequivocal: “Never have I ever said sorry to Joe Cullen in person. I play on that stage, what’s his problem? I say sorry, maybe, to the referee maybe, but for Joe Cullen? Never.”
Suljovic’s victory was celebrated with his characteristic fervor, pumping up the Ally Pally faithful as he advanced.
This exchange has reignited a perennial debate in professional darts: the boundaries of gamesmanship versus outright disruption. The PDC lacks a strict shot clock, unlike some rival tours, but rules explicitly prohibit deliberate delays aimed at unsettling opponents, potentially leading to warnings or penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct. Suljovic has faced similar criticisms throughout his career, yet his methodical style has proven effective in derailing faster, more explosive players like Cullen.
Pundits weighed in, acknowledging the clash of tempos while noting Cullen’s own missed opportunities—including crucial set darts and a subpar average in key moments—as significant factors in his exit. The defeat marks another disappointing chapter in what has been a challenging season for Cullen, who has slipped down the rankings despite occasional flashes of his former brilliance.
For Suljovic, the win represents a triumphant return to form at the biggest stage, propelling him toward what could be a generational clash with Littler. His unflappable response underscores his experience and mental resilience, traits that have kept him competitive well into his fifties.
As the championship builds toward its climactic phases over the festive period, incidents like this remind fans why darts captivates: it’s not just about precision and power, but the intricate psychological battles that unfold under the bright lights of Alexandra Palace. Whether this spat escalates further or serves as mere fuel for the tournament’s narrative, it has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to an already electrifying event.
Leave a Reply