Alexandra Palace erupted on Thursday as Kenyan darts player David Munyua stunned the darts world by defeating 18th seed and former Grand Prix champion Mike De Decker in the opening round of the World Darts Championship.
The 30-year-old vet, making history as the first-ever Kenyan to compete at the World Championship, delivered a performance fans will be talking about for years.
From Africa to London for a Dream
For Munyua, this was more than just a match—it was his first trip outside Africa.
Traveling over 14 hours from Nairobi, he had to navigate not only jet lag but also a cold, rainy London weather that was worlds apart from home.
“Amazing city,” he said, laughing at the contrast.
“Although the Worlds might fall in the wrong season.
I’ve never experienced temperatures like this. But we were prepared.”
A Comeback for the Ages
The game seemed all but over when De Decker raced to a 2-0 lead.
The Belgian, fresh off his 2024 Grand Prix win, looked unstoppable. But Munyua refused to back down.
With precision and nerves of steel, he pinned double 20 to clinch the final set, sending the crowd into raptures.
“This is amazing, I was not expecting it,” Munyua said afterward. “But it has happened, and I am happy about it.
It is a very big moment for the sport itself, for Africa, for Kenya.”
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Sponsors
Munyua started playing darts only three years ago, having previously been more interested in pool.
His journey to the World Championship required not just skill but also financial backing, as he had to secure sponsors to fund the trip.
Reaching the second round has already earned him at least £25,000, a significant boost for the budding athlete.
Respect for a Rival Turned Victim
Facing De Decker wasn’t just another match for Munyua—it was a personal milestone.
“I’m a fan of his,” he said. “I really like his playing style.
Last year I was cheering for him and really hoped he would win the Grand Prix.
Now I have the honor to play against someone I look up to.”
That admiration didn’t stop him from producing one of the most thrilling upsets of the tournament.
What’s Next for Munyua
With his historic victory behind him, Munyua now prepares for the second round against either Kevin Doets or Matthew Dennant.
His win has not only inspired darts fans in Kenya but also drawn attention to the potential growth of the sport across Africa.
“Since I started playing darts, I’ve always wanted to represent my country and continent.
This is a big deal, for myself and my people back home,” he said.
Other Early Highlights
Thursday’s opening matches saw some expected results as well.
Callan Rydz defeated Patrik Kovacs, Masato Sakai caused an upset over Thibault Tricole, and Ryan Joyce bested Owen Bates.
Meanwhile, a special fan named Billy, dubbed the “Final Boss,” won a competition to attend all 21 days of the Championship.
A bespoke caravan outside Alexandra Palace ensures he has a comfortable base to watch the darts action every day.
Evening Session Promises Star Power
Later in the evening, three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen is set to make his return to Alexandra Palace against Mitsuhiko Tatsunami, promising more thrilling action for the packed crowds.
But for now, it’s Munyua’s name on everyone’s lips—a symbol of perseverance, talent, and the thrill of seeing history made on the oche.
Alexandra Palace erupted on Thursday as Kenyan darts player David Munyua stunned the darts world by defeating 18th seed and former Grand Prix champion Mike De Decker in the opening round of the World Darts Championship.
The 30-year-old vet, making history as the first-ever Kenyan to compete at the World Championship, delivered a performance fans will be talking about for years.
From Africa to London for a Dream
For Munyua, this was more than just a match—it was his first trip outside Africa.
Traveling over 14 hours from Nairobi, he had to navigate not only jet lag but also a cold, rainy London weather that was worlds apart from home.
“Amazing city,” he said, laughing at the contrast. “Although the Worlds might fall in the wrong season.
I’ve never experienced temperatures like this. But we were prepared.”
A Comeback for the Ages
The game seemed all but over when De Decker raced to a 2-0 lead.
The Belgian, fresh off his 2024 Grand Prix win, looked unstoppable.
But Munyua refused to back down. With precision and nerves of steel, he pinned double 20 to clinch the final set, sending the crowd into raptures.
“This is amazing, I was not expecting it,” Munyua said afterward.
“But it has happened, and I am happy about it.
It is a very big moment for the sport itself, for Africa, for Kenya.”
A Journey Fueled by Passion and Sponsors
Munyua started playing darts only three years ago, having previously been more interested in pool.
His journey to the World Championship required not just skill but also financial backing, as he had to secure sponsors to fund the trip.
Reaching the second round has already earned him at least £25,000, a significant boost for the budding athlete.
Respect for a Rival Turned Victim
Facing De Decker wasn’t just another match for Munyua—it was a personal milestone.
“I’m a fan of his,” he said. “I really like his playing style.
Last year I was cheering for him and really hoped he would win the Grand Prix.
Now I have the honor to play against someone I look up to.”
That admiration didn’t stop him from producing one of the most thrilling upsets of the tournament.
What’s Next for Munyua
With his historic victory behind him, Munyua now prepares for the second round against either Kevin Doets or Matthew Dennant.
His win has not only inspired darts fans in Kenya but also drawn attention to the potential growth of the sport across Africa.
“Since I started playing darts, I’ve always wanted to represent my country and continent.
This is a big deal, for myself and my people back home,” he said.
Other Early Highlights
Thursday’s opening matches saw some expected results as well.
Callan Rydz defeated Patrik Kovacs, Masato Sakai caused an upset over Thibault Tricole, and Ryan Joyce bested Owen Bates.
Meanwhile, a special fan named Billy, dubbed the “Final Boss,” won a competition to attend all 21 days of the Championship.
A bespoke caravan outside Alexandra Palace ensures he has a comfortable base to watch the darts action every day.
Evening Session Promises Star Power
Later in the evening, three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen is set to make his return to Alexandra Palace against Mitsuhiko Tatsunami, promising more thrilling action for the packed crowds.
But for now, it’s Munyua’s name on everyone’s lips—a symbol of perseverance, talent, and the thrill of seeing history made on the oche.
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