The UK Open, often dubbed the ‘FA Cup of Darts’, is renowned for its unpredictable nature, consistently delivering thrilling underdog stories. This article delves into some of the most memorable and surprising runs in the tournament’s history, highlighting players who defied expectations, from reaching unprecedented quarter-finals and semi-finals to a stunning victory by a massive outsider. These captivating journeys remind us why the UK Open remains one of the sport’s most exciting events, where anyone can seize their moment in the spotlight.
Unforgettable Underdog Journeys at the UK Open
Erik Clarys: Belgium’s Pioneer (UK Open 2007)
In 2007, Belgian darts player Erik Clarys etched his name into sporting history. He became the first Belgian to ever reach the Quarter-finals of a PDC televised major tournament. This incredible achievement came a decade after his BDO World Masters triumph. Clarys captivated audiences with his strong performances, ultimately losing a hard-fought match to Mark Walsh in the Last Eight.
Brendan Dolan: The Northern Irishman’s Dream Run (UK Open 2011)
Northern Ireland’s Brendan Dolan produced a truly remarkable performance at the 2011 UK Open, making a sensational run to the semi-finals. This was an extraordinary feat for a player who, before and after, hadn’t achieved similar deep runs in major PDC televised events. On his path to the Last Four, Dolan showcased his skill by defeating notable opponents, including the 2004 World Finalist, Kevin Painter, and securing a significant victory over the then-rising star, Adrian Lewis. His dream run was eventually brought to an end by the legendary Raymond van Barneveld.
Jamie Hine: The Muffin Man’s Memorable Quarter-Final (UK Open 2007)
Jamie Hine, affectionately known as “The Muffin Man” due to his profession as a baker from Coventry, enjoyed the tournament of his darting career in 2007, reaching the Quarter-finals. His fairytale run nearly continued even further in the Last Eight, where he remarkably took a 4-leg lead against former World Number One and PDC TV major winner, Colin Lloyd. Despite Lloyd battling back to win 11-6, Hine’s performance was unforgettable. Adding to his charm, Hine’s walk-on became iconic: he delighted the crowd by throwing his homemade muffins into the audience as he approached the oche.
Gary Mawson: America’s First Finalist (UK Open 2007)
In 2007, Gary Mawson made history by becoming the first-ever American to reach the UK Open Final, marking one of the biggest surprise finalist appearances in the tournament’s history. Mawson’s impressive journey included victories over seasoned campaigners such as former 2005 World Finalist Mark Dudbridge and Wayne Jones. His most significant triumph, however, was overcoming the formidable 5-time former World Champion, Raymond van Barneveld, in a closely contested battle that ended 10 legs to 8. In the final, Mawson performed admirably against multiple PDC TV major winner James Wade, eventually losing 7-11, but leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.
Paul Hylton: A Double Quarter-Finalist (UK Open 2010)
The year 2010 proved to be a standout period for Paul Hylton, as he not only reached the Quarter-finals of the UK Open but also achieved the same feat later that year at the World Grand Prix. At the UK Open, his most dominant performance was a spectacular 9-0 demolition of the experienced Andy Jenkins. Hylton also secured notable wins against Peter Wright and Andrew Gilding. His impressive run at the UK Open concluded with a 10-6 loss to Denis Ovens, but it cemented his reputation as a player capable of deep runs in major events.
Devon Petersen: South Africa’s Dancing Star (UK Open 2015)
Devon Petersen’s run to the Quarter-finals in 2015 was a significant milestone, not just for his career but for South African darts. He became the first South African player to reach the Last Eight of a PDC televised major. Petersen’s journey included impressive victories over Matt Clark and Jamie Caven. While he ultimately lost to the eventual champion, Michael van Gerwen, his performance was memorable. Beyond his darts, Petersen became a huge crowd favourite at the Reebok Stadium that weekend, captivating everyone with his vibrant and energetic dance moves during his walk-on.
Jelle Klaasen: The Qualifier Who Stunned a World Champion (UK Open 2016)
Jelle Klaasen, entering the 2016 UK Open as a relatively unknown qualifier, embarked on a brilliant run that saw him reach the Quarter-finals. His most spectacular victory came in a stunning 9-3 win against the former 2-time World Champion, Gary Anderson. This dominant performance against one of the sport’s giants highlighted Klaasen’s talent and proved that anyone could beat the best on their day at the UK Open.
Steve Owen: The Semi-Finalist with a Stunning Average (UK Open 2009)
Steve Owen had the best run of his darting career at the 2009 UK Open, reaching the semi-finals. The Quarter-final stage provided his most memorable moment, where he delivered a shock performance against the former 3-time World Champion, John Part. Owen not only won comfortably by 10 legs to 3 but did so with an incredibly impressive 99 three-dart average, which was a significant 18 points higher than Part’s average, showcasing a truly dominant display of darts.
Andrew Gilding: The Shock Champion (UK Open 2023)
Andrew Gilding, known as “Goldfinger,” delivered one of the biggest shock victories in PDC televised major history at the 2023 UK Open. Entering the final as a huge underdog against the formidable 3-time former World Champion Michael van Gerwen, Gilding defied all expectations. In a thrilling encounter, he held his nerve to win a dramatic last-leg decider, triumphing 11-10 and securing his maiden PDC TV major title. His victory was a testament to perseverance and the unpredictable magic of the UK Open, proving that dreams can indeed come true on the biggest stages.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
