Quick Read
- Gary Anderson defeated Adam Hunt 3-2 in the opening round of the 2026 World Darts Championship.
- Anderson, seeded 14th, came back from 2-1 down to secure the win.
- He will face either Connor Scutt or Simon Whitlock in the second round.
- Welsh amateur David Davies caused an upset, advancing to face defending champion Luke Littler.
Gary Anderson Battles Adversity to Reach Second Round
On a brisk December evening at Alexandra Palace, Gary Anderson—known to fans as the Flying Scotsman—reminded the darts world why he remains a formidable competitor on the global stage. Facing Adam Hunt, ranked 84th, Anderson’s opening match at the PDC World Darts Championship was far from routine. The two-time world champion, now 54, had to dig deep and summon all his experience to claw back from a 2-1 deficit, ultimately winning 3-2 and advancing to the second round.
Key Moments: From Nerves to Nerve
The match began with Anderson edging out Hunt in a tight first set, clinching it 3-2. But the Scot’s rhythm faltered in the second set, missing the crucial double top in the deciding leg. Hunt seized the opportunity, confidently checking out 72 to level the match. The Englishman, just 32, then capitalized further, taking the third set as Anderson’s average dropped and the pressure mounted.
For a moment, it looked as if the seasoned champion might be on the wrong end of an upset. But if darts has taught its followers anything, it’s that momentum can shift in an instant. Anderson rallied in the fourth set, rediscovering the accuracy and composure that carried him to back-to-back titles in 2015 and 2016. With Hunt faltering after an early break of throw in the decider, Anderson seized control and never looked back.
Experience Overcomes Expectation
“That’s probably the best Adam has played all season. The first game is the hardest, but I’m through,” Anderson told Sky Sports moments after sealing victory. His words echoed the sentiment of countless veterans: opening matches often carry a weight of expectation that can rattle even the most decorated players.
Seeded 14th this year, Anderson’s journey is under the microscope. With the championship field packed with rising stars and seasoned pros alike, every leg is a test of nerve and skill. Anderson’s next challenge will come against the winner of Connor Scutt versus Simon Whitlock, promising another battle of wits and precision.
A Championship Full of Surprises
Elsewhere in the tournament, the drama continued to unfold. Welsh amateur David Davies, making his debut, caused a minor stir by sweeping Belgium’s Mario Vandenbogaerde 3-0. Davies, ranked outside the world’s top 100, booked a dream clash against defending champion Luke Littler—a matchup sure to draw attention as the underdog faces the reigning king.
Meanwhile, Andrew Gilding advanced with a 3-1 victory over Cam Crabtree, the young English debutant, thanks to a solid 97.89 average. Luke Woodhouse also made headlines, recovering from a sluggish start to defeat Croatia’s Boris Krcmar 3-1.
The World Darts Championship, now in its 2026 edition, continues to showcase the sport’s unpredictability and the razor-thin margins between triumph and heartbreak. Saturday’s session alone delivered twists, upsets, and moments of individual brilliance.
Looking Ahead: Anderson’s Path Forward
For Gary Anderson, the second round looms large. His blend of experience and tenacity remains his greatest asset, but the field is as competitive as ever. Darts fans know that every match at this stage is a battle—not just of skill, but of mental fortitude. Anderson’s comeback against Hunt may be a harbinger of further drama, as he seeks to recapture the magic of his championship years.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the Scotsman’s next move. Will he find the consistency needed to mount another deep run, or will the next generation assert themselves? One thing is certain: Anderson’s resilience, tested and proven, will be his guiding star.
Gary Anderson’s performance against Adam Hunt was a textbook display of veteran grit under pressure. While the Flying Scotsman showed flashes of his championship-winning form, the match underscored the growing depth of talent in world darts and the increasing challenge of staying at the top. Anderson’s ability to adapt mid-match and close out tense legs will be crucial as the tournament intensifies. For fans and fellow competitors alike, his journey this year is a reminder that experience, while invaluable, must be paired with unwavering focus to win on darts’ biggest stage. Source: BBC Sport