James Wade launched his PDC World Darts Championship campaign in style with a comfortable 3-0 win over Ryusei Azemoto, while Raymond van Barneveld was sent crashing out in the first round.
The Englishman, seeded seventh, dropped just one leg in a commanding display against the Japanese qualifier, marking his first victory at the tournament in four years. Wade said his performance reflected the work he has put in on the practice board, adding that although it was not spectacular, he delivered when it mattered most. He averaged 94.75 compared to Azemoto’s 84.42 and will face Ricky Evans in round two on Monday.
In contrast, five-time world champion Van Barneveld endured a disappointing night at Alexandra Palace. The 58-year-old Dutchman lost 3-0 to Switzerland’s Stefan Bellmont, who became the first player from his country to win a match at the venue. Van Barneveld took the opening leg but then dropped the next eight, struggling badly on the doubles despite posting a higher overall average than Bellmont.
Elsewhere, Germany’s Martin Schindler impressed with a 3-1 victory over Stephen Burton, averaging just over 99 and firing in seven maximums. He will meet either Keane Barry or Tim Pusey in the second round. American newcomer Adam Sevada also progressed, beating Canada’s Matt Campbell 3-1 in a closely fought contest decided by sharper finishing on the doubles.
Thursday’s action features Fallon Sherrock, the first woman to win a match at a World Championship, taking on former semi-finalist Dave Chisnall, while three-time champion Michael van Gerwen begins his tournament against Mitsuhiko Tatsunami.
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