Female darts star Beau Greaves almost caused an almighty upset against Daryl Gurney at Alexandra Palace on Friday night.
Greaves, 21, has gained traction in the sport over recent years for her incredible performances in the women’s game, where she is world No 1.
By competing in the men’s game, she is becoming a darting trailblazer too, and this was just her second appearance at the World Championship after her debut in 2023.
And it was almost an incredible night for Greaves as she took world No 22 Gurney all the way.
After going 1-0 down at Ally Pally, Greaves hit back in the second set, which she won with a 10-dart leg.
Gurney, who is from Northern Ireland, pushed himself back in front in the third set, before Greaves took it to a deciding one.
Gurney ultimately triumphed 3-1 to pick up a 3-2 victory, although not before missing four match darts.
And, after his win, the Northern Irishman was quick to pay tribute to the 21-year-old.
‘For me she is the best woman darts player on the planet,’ he said. ‘If there’s going to be a (female) darts player who can win the World Championship or a major Championship, that’s the player.
‘Even from a man’s point of view that woman has got some cojones. What a darts player, honestly what a darts player.
‘For me, obviously everyone said she was favourite coming into the game… sometimes I showed my class and composure to get over the finish line.’
MORE TO FOLLOW
