Once a dazzling talent on the European darts circuit, Benito Van De Pas, known as ‘Big Ben,’ recently stepped back from the sport. However, exciting news is emerging: Van De Pas has been spotted competing in regional tournaments, displaying flashes of his former brilliance. This resurgence hints at a potential return to the professional stage, with whispers suggesting a target of Q-School 2027. For fans who remember his explosive play, this comeback is a thrilling prospect.
From Prodigy to Pause: The Journey of ‘Big Ben’
Benito Van De Pas was once a name synonymous with rising stardom in the world of darts. His captivating style and impressive results earned him a dedicated fanbase. Yet, in recent times, ‘Big Ben’ took a significant break from the intense demands of professional darts, leaving many to wonder if they would ever see him on the oche again.
A Spark Rekindled: Back on the Local Scene
The good news for darts enthusiasts is that Van De Pas is now back in action, albeit on a local level. His presence at regional tournaments has ignited excitement, particularly among those who know his talent best. Jimmy Van Schie, a fellow darts player, recently encountered Benito and shared his enthusiasm:
“Last Tuesday I was at the Oranjebar, where I always play my local tournaments. I came across Benito and thought, ‘Wow, that’s a really long time ago.’ He picked up his darts again and played very decent. I hope the hunger is back in him, because he’s a class guy and a class player as well.”
This sentiment perfectly captures the hope surrounding Van De Pas’s return. It’s clear that even after a hiatus, his inherent skill remains.
Shaking Off the Rust: Performance at Asperen
Benito is actively working to regain his rhythm and sharpness. This past weekend, he participated in the De Jong Auto’s Betuwe Darts Spektakel, a local tournament held in Asperen, near Utrecht. This event drew a number of prominent Dutch players, including Wessel Nijman, Wesley Plaisier, Wesley van Trijp, and Jerry Hendriks, all vying for the top prize.
Despite his period of inactivity, Van De Pas showed promising signs of his old form, advancing to the last 16 of the competition. His journey was eventually halted by Wessel Nijman, who defeated him 3-1. Nijman went on to reach the final, where he was ultimately bested by Wesley Plaisier in a 5-3 match.
The Road Ahead: Building Towards a Professional Return
While it might be premature to expect ‘Big Ben’ to immediately re-enter mainstream professional tournaments, his participation in local events is crucial. These tournaments provide invaluable practice, allowing him to shake off the ‘cobwebs’ and sharpen his game. It’s a vital step in rebuilding his routine and confidence.
The ultimate decision rests with Benito Van De Pas himself: does he truly want to reclaim his former professional status? If the answer is yes, then fans can mark their calendars. Should he commit to a full return, it is highly anticipated that he would make an appearance at Q-School 2027, aiming to secure his spot back on the professional circuit. The darts world watches with keen interest, hoping to see ‘Big Ben’ back in his full glory.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
