PDC World Championship finalist fights to finish match after struggling to throw dart

Disaster struck for one contender at the World Seniors Matchplay when the darts icon was clearly struggling to release his dart during the first round of the competition

Former World Darts Championship runner-up Kevin Painter left fans worried after he was seen struggling to throw his darts.

The oche icon was competing against Canada's David Cameron in the first-round match of the World Seniors Matchplay on Friday. However, 'The Artist' hit a snag as he sought to hit back from 6-2 down with only 104 to clear in the ninth leg.

Painter, 57, was visibly struggling to throw at the York Barbican but managed to make a dramatic turn when he finally dispatched 19, treble 15, and double 20 in slick fashion. The crowd erupted in support for the long-standing PDC pro, showing solidarity in what appeared to be a difficult moment.

Rumours have been circulating that Painter has been battling dartitis for a year or more. Despite claiming that ninth leg, it was the last Painter would win as Cameron went on to triumph 8-3, wrapping up the result with a remarkable 152 clearance and conjure his own applause from the Barbican audience.

Nonetheless, the Daily Express reported it was Painter who elicited the loudest applause that night, receiving accolades for his resilience in rounding off the game despite his adversity. Whisperings point to a shoulder injury hampering Painter for much of 2023, yet the hurdle he faced on Friday seemed of a different nature.

"Kevin Painter is showing so much heart and determination up there," wrote one impressed fan on social media. "Many would have just said I can't do this and conceded. It's horrible to see but he is leaving everything up there."

Another speculated: "I know the match isn't finished, but got to give Kevin painter credit for going up there and playing even with severe dartitis, takes some courage that."

Painter is most famous for making it to the World Darts Championship final at Alexandra Palace in 2004. He was narrowly defeated 7-6 by Phil Taylor in a thrilling match, which was a defining moment in their long-standing rivalry.

The Artist went on to claim major silverware when he won the Players Championship Finals in December 2011. And judging by the reception he received in York, it's clear he's built a loyal following that was ready to support him during a dark moment.

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