🔗 Share this article

In a display that etched his name in the record books, debutant Justin Hood pulled off an unheard-of feat of 11 consecutive doubles, powering his way to a commanding 4-0 victory over Josh Rock in the last 16 of the prestigious World Darts Championship.

A Fairytale Start on the Grandest Arena

The 32-year-old, competing in his maiden season on the top-tier professional circuit, continued his sensational tournament run. His perfect doubling streak only ended when he was throwing to seal the match at 2-0 up in the fourth set. Unfazed, he composed himself to secure the victory with a superb 119 checkout in the very next leg.

“It’s not a fairytale – I know what I can do and it’s incredibly satisfying to demonstrate it up there,” Hood remarked in his post-match interview. “The only time I felt a bit of nerves was throwing the leg before the last. I’m unaccustomed to this. Ordinarily, I get hate messages. This is mad.”

Setting the Tone with Electrifying Start

Hood sent an early message about his intentions by winning the opening set with an 11-dart break. This left the higher-seeded Rock, the tournament's 11th seed, powerless but watch in amazement as Hood stormed to victory, registering a impressive 101 average and firing in 10 maximum 180s.

This historic win ensures the newcomer a career-best payday of at least £100,000 and brings him closer to his stated ambition of launching a Chinese restaurant.

Clayton Climbs Amid Grueling Battle

In other third round action, Jonny Clayton solidified his rise to the number four spot in the global rankings after mounting a comeback from a set down to defeat Andreas Harrysson 4-2.

The Swedish contender ultimately paid the price for squandering key opportunities, after establishing a 2-1 advantage and then missing four darts to re-establish a one-set lead at 3-2.

“There’s a lot on my mind and becoming world No. 4 was among them,” admitted Clayton. “Every time I looked up, Andreas was finding his doubles. It was a real battle; I didn’t play my best darts and had many loose throws, but that’s what the occasion does to you.”

Ratajski Rolls into Last Eight

Joining them in the quarter-final stage is Krzysztof Ratajski, who found an extra gear in the later stages to secure a 4-2 win over Luke Woodhouse, earning his spot in the prestigious last eight of the championship.