The Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes was ablaze with excitement on August 25, 2025, as Scott Williams delivered a moment of pure darts magic, landing a breathtaking nine-dart finish in the third round of Players Championship 24. This rare feat, achieved during a gripping match against William O’Connor, sent shockwaves through the darts community, marking only the second nine-darter in the 2025 PDC ProTour season. Williams’ flawless performance, executed with ice-cold precision, solidified his reputation as a rising star and electrified a packed crowd, cementing a historic moment in the sport.
The nine-darter, the holy grail of darts, unfolded in a best-of-11-leg match that showcased Williams at his absolute best. Facing a formidable opponent in O’Connor, known for his own scoring prowess, Williams seized control early. In the pivotal leg, he unleashed a masterclass: three consecutive 180s followed by a clinical treble 20, treble 19, and double 12 checkout to complete the perfect leg. The crowd erupted as the final dart landed, with players and officials joining in the celebration of a moment that epitomized the sport’s thrilling unpredictability. “It’s an unbelievable feeling to hit a nine-darter on this stage,” Williams said post-match, his voice tinged with exhilaration. “You dream of moments like this, and to do it in front of this crowd is something I’ll never forget.”
Williams’ achievement was no fluke. The 34-year-old Englishman has been a consistent performer on the PDC ProTour, known for his steady hand and aggressive scoring. His path to the third round included strong wins over less experienced players, but facing O’Connor—a seasoned campaigner with a knack for big moments—required something extraordinary. The nine-darter not only secured Williams’ advancement but also underscored his potential to challenge the sport’s elite. “I knew I had to bring my A-game today,” Williams reflected, acknowledging the pressure of the high-stakes ProTour environment. His performance elevated his standing in the Players Championship Order of Merit, where a top-64 finish is crucial for qualifying for the prestigious Players Championship Finals in Minehead from November 21-23.
The significance of Williams’ nine-darter extends beyond the match itself. Players Championship 24, part of the 34-event PDC ProTour series, features a 128-player field packed with talent, including heavyweights like Michael van Gerwen, Luke Littler, and Gerwyn Price. Yet, it was Williams who stole the spotlight, joining an elite group of players who have achieved perfection on the ProTour. The event, broadcast live on PDCTV, captivated a global audience, with fans on social media buzzing about the “electric” atmosphere in Milton Keynes. The nine-darter, only the second of the season following Michael Smith’s earlier feat, highlighted the growing intensity of the 2025 campaign, where young stars and seasoned pros alike are pushing the boundaries of the sport.
Williams’ journey to this moment has been one of perseverance. A regular on the ProTour since earning his PDC Tour Card, he has steadily climbed the ranks, earning respect for his work ethic and clutch performances. His nine-darter, a rare achievement that requires both skill and nerve, was a testament to his growth. “You just have to stay focused and take it one dart at a time,” he said, offering insight into the mindset that carried him through the high-pressure leg. The crowd’s reaction, a roaring ovation that echoed through the arena, was a fitting reward for a player who has quietly built a reputation as a dangerous competitor.
As the tournament progresses, Williams’ nine-darter sets a high bar for his rivals. The Milton Keynes event, with its £15,000 top prize and critical ranking points, is a battleground for players vying for major titles later in the season. For Williams, this moment is a career-defining highlight, one that places him among darts’ immortals. The darts world now watches eagerly to see if he can carry this momentum forward, potentially challenging for the title or securing a coveted spot in Minehead. With his name now etched in ProTour history, Scott Williams has proven that under pressure, he can deliver perfection.
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