Gary Anderson has been eliminated from the World Darts Championship in the biggest upset of the tournament so far.
The two-time world champion was knocked out in the second round by Swede Jeffrey de Graaf in straight sets at Alexandra Palace.
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The Flying Scotsman, seeded 14th at Ally Pally, came into the tournament in fine form and was heavy favourite to come out victorious in his second round clash with the Swedish star.
But Anderson, a two-time world champion, struggled and was beaten 3-0 in a shock result.
This is the first time Anderson, who is celebrating his 54th birthday on Sunday, has lost his opening match at a World Championship.
So far in the 2025 championship, it’s not been a good year for the seeds.
Out of 23 seeds who have taken to the stage at Ally Pally so far, 11 of them have been eliminated from the competition.
De Graaf, who is ranked 81st in the world rankings, deserves huge credit having made an electric start to the contest before retaining control throughout.
Reflecting on his win, De Graaf said: “It’s great. Gary didn’t really show up as he usually does. I’m very happy with the win.
“I got very nervous after the first set and then at 2-0, I was like what is going on now?”
Ending the match with a doubles percentage of 75, De Graaf continued: “That’s what I need to do to win.
“I was also lucky in the second set when he missed a lot of doubles, it was a relief. He started the third set really well.”
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The Swedish star added: “It has been the best year, definitely. I’m just happy to be there to keep on going.”
For Anderson, the defeat will be bitterly disappointing after a positive year.
Entering 2024 ranked number 27, semi-final placings in the Grand Slam Of Darts and the World Cup Of Darts saw him move up to 14th in the world.
Facing someone 67 places behind him in the rankings, the Scottish star will be ruing a big missed opportunity as he looked to improve on last year’s fourth round finish.
