Menzies withdraws from World Matchplay after on-stage medical episode
6 verified2 unconfirmed
Cameron Menzies was taken ill on stage during his second-round match against Ross Smith at the World Matchplay Darts in Blackpool on Wednesday evening. The Scottish player was leading 2-1 when he became unsteady, doubled over, and was helped off the stage by Smith and match officials. The Professional Darts Corporation later confirmed that Menzies experienced high blood pressure, which caused dizziness and a fainting episode. After assessment by on-site medical staff, he was cleared to return to his accommodation but could not continue the match, which was forfeited. Ross Smith advanced to the quarter-finals as a result. Other second-round matches saw Gian van Veen, Gerwyn Price, and James Wade also progress.
What’s verified
Cameron Menzies became unwell during his World Matchplay second-round match against Ross Smith while leading 2-1.
He appeared unsteady on his feet and was helped off stage by Smith and officials.
The PDC stated Menzies experienced high blood pressure, causing dizziness and fainting.
On-site medical staff deemed Menzies well enough to return to his accommodation.
The match was abandoned, and Menzies forfeited, sending Smith to the quarter-finals.
Gerwyn Price, Gian van Veen, and James Wade also won their second-round matches on Wednesday.
Not yet confirmed
One source reports that Menzies is 37 years old.
One source notes that Menzies had earlier defeated 2024 champion Luke Humphries in the first round, a victory he called the biggest moment of his darts career.
Key figures
Cameron Menzies (Scottish darts player)
Ross Smith (English darts player, 15th seed)
Gerwyn Price (7th seed)
Gian van Veen (3rd seed)
James Wade (6th seed)
PDC (Professional Darts Corporation)
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
