Cameron Menzies stole the show on the opening day of the Elten Safety Shoes European Darts Grand Prix, with a remarkable performance that saw him defeat Raymond van Barneveld 6-3. The 36-year-old's impressive display, which included a stunning late surge, earned him a 104.5 average and his fifth consecutive win over the Dutch legend. Menzies will face former European Champion Ross Smith in the next round.
The first day of the tournament also saw three former champions - Rob Cross, Peter Wright, and Ian White - crash out. Van Barneveld's loss was not the only upset, as former World Champions Cross and Wright were beaten by Mickey Mansell and Jeffrey de Zwaan, respectively.
The tournament continues on Saturday, with notable matches including Niko Springer against defending champion Gary Anderson, and Gerwyn Price against Dave Chisnall. Other winners on the day included Kim Huybrechts, who defeated Dirk van Duijvenbode, and Michael Unterbuchner, who landed three ton-plus checkouts in his deciding-leg success against William O'Connor.
Joe Cullen and Keane Barry also advanced, setting up intriguing clashes against top seed Gian van Veen and Premier League star Josh Rock, respectively. The action continues on Saturday, with the afternoon session starting at 1300 local time and the evening session at 1900 local time.