Emma Paton tackles Gary Anderson and James Wade over media bias in darts

The World Darts Championship, held annually at Alexandra Palace in the UK, showcases some of the finest competitors in the sport, attracting large crowds and viewership. Recently, two-time world champion Gary Anderson faced a shocking defeat in the second round against his unseeded opponent Jeffrey de Graaf. Anderson struggled throughout the match, winning only two legs and converting merely three out of twenty attempts at doubles. De Graaf took advantage of Anderson's errors, swiftly claiming victory and advancing to the third round of the tournament. This event was part of what is often considered the festive season for darts enthusiasts, as the championship has become a Christmas tradition in the UK. The crowd at Alexandra Palace, known for its passionate atmosphere, was likely treated to an unexpected twist when Anderson fell short of expectations. This upset was compounded by another seeded player, Dimitri Van den Bergh, advancing after defeating Dylan Slevin, suggesting a turbulent tournament for favored competitors. Other seeded players, including Martin Schindler, were knocked out in earlier rounds as well, exhibiting the unpredictable nature of competitive darts. Adding to the drama of the championship, the young player Luke Littler emerged as a potential new star, previously a runner-up in the 2023 edition of the same tournament. His emotional return to the stage following a year of expectations, coupled with a performance that nearly resulted in a nine-dart finish during his match against Ryan Meikle, suggests a promising future for the seventeen-year-old. Littler's ability to handle pressure might be a new narrative in the sport as he competes against seasoned players. These developments in the World Darts Championship do not just reflect individual player performances; they represent a larger trend where upstarts and less-recognized talents are increasingly capable of shocking the established stars. This change could enhance viewer engagement and interest in the sport, drawing a broader audience. As the tournament progresses, it remains to be seen whether more surprises await, especially with the emergence of young talents like Littler alongside longstanding competitors like Anderson, all vying for the prestigious Sid Waddell Trophy.