The world of darts has seen many legends, but few command the respect and admiration quite like Raymond van Barneveld. His career, spanning decades, is a testament to skill, resilience, and an enduring impact on the sport.
The Recent Rollercoaster: Highs and Lows
Barney’s recent form has been a blend of vintage brilliance and challenging moments. In 2022, he turned back the clock with a **deep run to the Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals**. This memorable performance saw him **defeat then-world number one Gerwyn Price**, reminding fans of his former glory, before eventually losing to the tournament’s eventual winner, Michael Smith. It was a nostalgic echo of his 2012 Grand Slam triumph, where he famously beat a young Michael van Gerwen in the final.
However, the 2023 World Darts Championship brought a different story. A **first-round, straight-sets exit to Switzerland’s Stefan Bellmont** was initially seen as an upset, but for many, it signaled a potential shift, hinting at the twilight of Barney’s appearances in major PDC tournaments.
The Dutch Pioneer: Barney’s Immense Influence
At 58, Van Barneveld isn’t just a player; he’s a phenomenon. He is **widely regarded as one of the most influential dart players in history**, particularly for his role in popularizing darts in the Netherlands. It’s often said that **without Raymond van Barneveld, there might not have been a Michael van Gerwen**, who is now considered the second-best player of all time. Barney’s pioneering move from the BDO to the PDC to challenge the seemingly unbeatable Phil Taylor inspired a generation.
A Career Defined by Trophies: Barney’s Major Wins
Barney’s CV is a glittering testament to his prowess. His list of achievements firmly places him among the elite:
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Five World Championship Titles
- **BDO World Darts Champion (4 times):** 1998, 1999, 2003, 2005.
- **PDC World Darts Champion (1 time):** 2007.
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Premier League of Darts Champion
- **2014:** A monumental year where he defeated his greatest rival, Phil Taylor, in the semi-final, and then overcame his protégé, Michael van Gerwen, in the final.
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Four-Time World Cup of Darts Champion
- **2010:** Alongside Co Stompe.
- **2014, 2017, 2018:** Alongside Michael van Gerwen.
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Other Significant Titles
- **UK Open:** Back-to-back wins in 2006 and 2007.
- **World Masters (2 times).**
- **World Darts Trophy (2 times).**
- **Invitational Darts League (3 times).**
- **Las Vegas Desert Classic (2007).**
With five world titles, Barney stands **joint second with the late great Eric Bristow for the most world titles ever**, surpassed only by Phil Taylor.
The Rivalry that Changed Darts: Barney vs. Taylor
One of the most iconic chapters in darts history is the rivalry between Raymond van Barneveld and Phil Taylor. Barney’s decision to join the PDC was largely to challenge Taylor, who dominated the sport. Their clashes were legendary, none more so than the **2007 PDC World Darts Championship final.**
Widely tipped as **the greatest darts match ever played**, Taylor initially led the Dutchman 3-0 in sets. Barney’s incredible comeback culminated in a dramatic **last-leg sudden death decider**. In a tense moment, Barney won a controversial bull’s-eye off to have the darts, famously asking Taylor to leave his dart (which had landed in the 25 segment) in the board. He then sealed his first PDC world title by **pinning tops and hitting a crucial 180** in that final leg. The legendary commentator John Gwynne immortalized the moment with the iconic line, “Barneveld is the champion of the world.”
Barney also made history by hitting the **first-ever Premier League of Darts nine-darter** against Peter Manley in 2006, further cementing his place in the sport’s annals.
The Legacy: Beyond the Oche
Raymond van Barneveld’s career is not just about the trophies; it’s about his **longevity, his pioneering spirit, and his profound influence on the game**. He not only challenged the best but also inspired a nation and a new generation of dart players. While Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson have also carved out glittering careers, Barney’s unique combination of world titles, groundbreaking moments, and his role in elevating the sport ensures his place in the pantheon of darts legends.
His story is one of a true champion, a trailblazer who consistently pushed the boundaries of what was possible in darts.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
