The World Darts Championship witnessed a dramatic and furious outburst as Scottish professional Cameron Menzies violently turned on a drinks table following a stunning first-round exit to a 20-year-old debutant.
A Debutant's Dream Turns Into a Veteran's Nightmare
In a tense match that went all the way to a deciding set, 26th seed Cameron Menzies was sensationally beaten 3-2 by Charlie 'Champagne Charlie' Manby. The climax was fraught with tension, as Menzies, needing just three points to win, missed crucial darts, leaving the door open for his young opponent. Manby, showing remarkable composure, stepped up to the oche and finished the match with a four, a two, and a double-one, sending the Alexandra Palace crowd into pandemonium.
The 36-year-old Scotsman, with his hands on his head in disbelief, watched as Manby sprinted down the stage in celebration of the biggest win of his life. This scene of unbridled joy for one player proved the final trigger for the other's explosive rage.
The Explosive Reaction and Immediate Regret
As Manby returned to applaud the crowd, a furious Menzies directed his anger at the Paddy Power-branded drinks table beside the stage. He smashed three powerful punches into its underside, an act of pure frustration that split his own hand open, leaving it bleeding. The victorious Manby could only look on in stunned disbelief.
The crowd roundly booed the violent outburst, prompting Menzies to quickly appear to offer an apology. Walking off the stage, the severity of his actions seemed to dawn on him as he examined his bloodied hand. Sky Sports commentators were unequivocal in their criticism. Former champion Glen Durrant stated Menzies would "regret that for the rest of his life," calling it "not a good watch." Co-commentator Stuart Pyke noted it was a "spur-of-the-moment thing" but acknowledged the attempted apology.
Aftermath and Historical Context
For Charlie Manby, a breakout star on the Development Tour, the victory was monumental. He clawed back from a 2-1 deficit, surviving four missed match darts from Menzies to secure his place in the second round. "It's a bit overwhelming but it felt absolutely amazing out there," the elated debutant said post-match.
For Cameron Menzies, the defeat marks a second consecutive first-round exit from the World Championship. The reaction was markedly different from last year's, where he broke down in tears after losing to Leonard Gates, a moment later attributed to his father's illness. This time, his exit was marked by an act of destructive anger that will undoubtedly dominate the headlines and discussion around this year's tournament at Ally Pally.
