Stefan Lord, the first and only overseas player to win the News of the World Championship, has died at the age of 71. The Swedish darts pioneer, who also reached the BDO World Championship semi-finals twice, passed away, prompting tributes from the sport's community.
A groundbreaking career
Lord made history by becoming the first international competitor to capture the prestigious News of the World title, winning in 1978 and 1980. He defeated John Coward in the 1978 final and Dave Whitcombe in the 1980 final. His maiden title came in the same year he lost to John Lowe in the BDO World Championship semi-final.
Lord reached the last four of the BDO World Championship again in 1982, where he was beaten by Jockey Wilson. The following year, he progressed to the quarter-finals before losing to Tony Brown. His final BDO appearance came in 1988, when he was knocked out by Paul Lim.
Tributes from darts legend
John Lowe honoured Lord on social media, writing: "My good friend for many years Stefan Lord, passed away yesterday, he was a Swedish pioneer for the sport of darts, probably the most well know player in the country, winner of the News of the World twice, 1980 and 1982. We always had plenty to talk about when we met, which was in many countries around the world, Stefan made his final home in Pattaya Thailand. Thanks for the many memories Stefan, your friend John."
Lord, widely regarded as Sweden's greatest ever player, had made his final home in Pattaya, Thailand. His legacy as a trailblazer for darts in Sweden and internationally is remembered by fans and peers alike.
