Darts fans are noticing a surprising trend on the European Tour: the electrifying 100+ averages, once a hallmark of top-tier play, have significantly declined in 2026. Data from the first five tournaments reveals a sharp drop, raising questions about the current state of elite performance. Despite this dip in overall high scores, the ambition remains sky-high for rising stars like David Munyua, who boldly declares his aim to reach the world’s number one spot.
A Puzzling Drop in Darts’ Elite Performance
The European Tour, known for showcasing the world’s best darts players, is currently experiencing a curious phenomenon. The highly anticipated 100+ averages, a benchmark for exceptional play where a player scores an average of 100 points or more per three darts thrown, are becoming a rarer sight in 2026.
Looking at the statistics from the first five European Tour tournaments of the year, the numbers paint a clear picture:
- In 2026, there have been only 66 instances of a 100+ average.
- This is a stark contrast to 2025, which saw 94 such averages in the same period.
- And even further from 2024, where players hit an impressive 104 100+ averages.
This significant decrease raises several questions among darts enthusiasts and analysts alike. Are players facing increased pressure? Is there a shift in playing styles? Or perhaps new talent is emerging, leading to more competitive but less consistently dominant performances?
Understanding the 100+ Average
For those new to darts, achieving a 100+ average is a monumental feat. It means a player consistently hits high scores – often combinations of treble 20s, treble 19s, and bullseyes – throughout a match. It’s a key indicator of precision, consistency, and mental fortitude under pressure. A match filled with these high averages is often considered a ‘classic’ for its incredible standard of play.
Unwavering Ambition: David Munyua’s World Number One Dream
Despite the broader statistical trend, the spirit of ambition in darts remains undimmed. Rising stars continue to push boundaries and set audacious goals. David Munyua perfectly encapsulates this drive, with his inspiring declaration:
“I want to be number one in the world, why not?”
Munyua’s statement highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines professional darts. Even as the overall frequency of peak performances might fluctuate, the individual desire to reach the pinnacle of the sport is as strong as ever. His ambition serves as a reminder that every player on the tour is striving for greatness, aiming to defy statistics and leave their mark on the game.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
