Cameron Menzies stole the show on the first day of the European Darts Grand Prix, defeating Raymond van Barneveld 6-3 in an electrifying match. The 36-year-old produced a dazzling display, averaging 104.5 and reeling off impressive legs of 11, 13, and 13 darts to secure his fifth consecutive win over the Dutch legend.
Menzies expressed his delight, saying, 'I felt incredible out there. I wish I could play like that all the time.' He will face former European Champion Ross Smith in the next round. The day saw several former champions, including Rob Cross and Peter Wright, exit the tournament. Cross, the 2023 European Darts Grand Prix champion, was beaten 6-2 by Mickey Mansell, while Wright lost 6-3 to Jeffrey de Zwaan.
Other notable results included the elimination of 2019 champion Ian White, who lost 6-2 to Wessel Nijman, and the victory of Kim Huybrechts over Dirk van Duijvenbode. The tournament continues on Saturday, with several high-profile matches scheduled, including Gary Anderson vs.
Niko Springer and Gerwyn Price vs. Dave Chisnall.