Raymond van Barneveld faced a disappointing exit in the first round of the World Grand Prix held in Leicester. The seasoned Dutch darts player lost to Scotland’s Gary Anderson with a score of 2-1 in sets. This tournament is notable in the darts world, requiring players to start and finish a leg with a double, adding an extra layer of challenge.
Match Highlights: Van Barneveld vs. Anderson
The encounter between Van Barneveld and Anderson is considered a classic in darts. Their rivalry spans 51 matches, with both players having been crowned PDC World Champions. At 58 years old, Van Barneveld showcased resilience, managing to level the match after losing the first set. However, in the decisive third set, he missed crucial doubles, allowing Anderson to seize victory.
Other Matches of Interest
- Wessel Nijman: Nijman also faced a tough first-round match against Rob Cross. After splitting the first two sets, Nijman lost in a final leg after missing a potentially match-winning dart.
- Danny Noppert: Noppert advanced to the second round, defeating Jermaine Wattimena. Despite struggles with his doubles, he secured the win with an impressive 158 finish.
Upcoming Matches
On Tuesday, additional Dutch players will compete in the tournament. Notable matches include Michael van Gerwen versus Dirk van Duijvenbode and Gian van Veen against reigning world champion Luke Littler.
The World Grand Prix continues to be one of the most prestigious events in darts, showcasing top talent and thrilling matches.
