De Graaf Eliminates Two-Time Champion Anderson

Gary Anderson Knocked Out of PDC World Championship on 54th Birthday

Two-time champion Gary Anderson suffered a shocking exit from the PDC World Championship on his 54th birthday, losing 3-0 to Jeffrey de Graaf in the second round at Alexandra Palace, London. The Swede, 34, stunned Anderson with a 75% checkout rate, starting with an 11-dart finish to secure his first win over his idol.

“Gary didn’t really show up as he usually does. I’m very happy with the win,” said De Graaf, who described the victory as a “dream come true.”

Anderson, ranked 14th, became the 11th seed eliminated from the tournament and the fifth to fall on Sunday. Despite coming in with the year’s highest overall three-dart average of 99.66, the Scot managed only three successful checkouts from 20 attempts, marking the first time he’s lost his opening match in this competition.

De Graaf will now face Filipino qualifier Paolo Nebrida, who also delivered a surprise win by defeating 19th seed Ross Smith in straight sets.

Upsets Continue as Seeds Tumble

Sunday proved a day of surprises, with several higher-ranked players falling. England’s Callan Rydz advanced by defeating 23rd seed Martin Schindler 3-0. Schindler missed a nine-dart opportunity early in the match, becoming the third player in 24 hours to miss double 12 for a perfect leg.

Belgium’s Dimitri van den Bergh also progressed with a commanding 3-0 victory over Dylan Slevin, hitting six 180s and averaging 96. Meanwhile, Ian “Diamond” White eliminated 29th seed Ritchie Edhouse and set up a third-round clash with teenage sensation Luke Littler.

Littler, who hit a record-setting 140 average in the first round, awaits White in what promises to be an exciting encounter.

Joe Cullen’s Frustrated Exit

Joe Cullen, the 23rd seed, expressed frustration with media coverage after his 3-0 win over Dutchman Wessel Nijman. Cullen, who was billed as an underdog by some bookmakers, accused the media of disrespect and abruptly left his post-match news conference.

“I’ve been shown no respect, so I won’t be showing any respect to any of you guys tonight,” Cullen said before leaving the stage.

Other Highlights from Sunday

Ryan Searle opened the day with a 10-dart leg and swept Matt Campbell 3-0. Latvia’s Madars Razma eliminated 25th seed Dirk van Duijvenbode 3-1 in another upset.

Upcoming Matches

The second round concludes Monday, with notable players like Jonny Clayton and 2018 champion Rob Cross taking the stage. Following a three-day Christmas break, the third round will begin on Friday.