Englishman Michael Smith is darts world champion for the first time. The “Bully Boy” surprisingly won the World Cup final on Tuesday evening in London 7:4 against the Dutchman Michael van Gerwen and thus also took first place in the world rankings for the first time in his career.
Smith, who defeated Germany’s Gabriel Clemens in the semifinals, will also receive prize money of £500,000 (around €565,000) and the 25-kilogram Sid Waddell Trophy. The 32-year-old Smith, who was considered an underdog before the game, even managed a nine-darter.
“Mighty Mike”, as van Gerwen is called, had previously won the most important title in the world in 2014, 2017 and 2019. With his defeat in his sixth World Cup final, the Dutchman also missed the long-awaited return to first place in the rankings.
Smith, who won his third attempt after two defeats in the final, will lead Wednesday’s ranking ahead of Scotsman Peter Wright and van Gerwen. (dpa)
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