Cameron Menzers' second‑round encounter with Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay was abruptly stopped when the 37‑year‑old Scot suddenly felt dizzy on the stage and later fainted at the Winter Gardens on Wednesday evening. At the time of the incident Menzers was leading 2‑1, but his discomfort became evident when he doubled over and struggled to keep his balance, prompting Smith and the officials to rush to his side. Medical personnel were called onto the stage and Menzers was swiftly escorted off the arena for treatment.
The Professional Darts Corporation later clarified that the player had suffered a spike in blood pressure, which caused the dizziness and subsequent fainting spell. After a thorough check‑up, doctors deemed him fit enough to return to his hotel, though he was unable to resume the match. Menzers turned to social media later that night to reassure supporters and thank those who had reached out. In a Facebook post he wrote, "Thanks to everyone who's checked in and sent messages.
I'm okay." He went on to explain that his condition prevented him from continuing, adding, "Unfortunately, I wasn't well enough to continue the match. It's obviously not how I wanted my World Matchplay to end, especially after playing some of the best darts of my career over the last few weeks." He also expressed gratitude to the medical team, to Ross Smith for checking on him, and to the staff at the Winter Gardens for their assistance.
"A big good luck to Ross for the rest of the tournament. I wish him all the best.
Hopefully I'll be back doing what I love very soon. Thanks again for all your support, it really does mean a lot," Menzers concluded. Because Menzers could not carry on, the match was officially abandoned and Ross Smith advanced to the quarter‑finals, where he will meet Gerwyn Price.
The PDC released a statement confirming the circumstances: "Cameron Menzers was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening. Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint. Following an assessment by the on‑site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation. We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon." The incident drew comments from fellow players and commentators.
Sky Sports analyst Glen Durrant said, "I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it's all about Cameron Menzers. He's in tip‑top form at the moment. It's a real tough one to take." After a brief intermission, the tournament moved on with Gian van Veen facing Wessel Nijman.
Menzers' journey to the second round had been remarkable. He entered the event after a stunning 10‑7 victory over the reigning 2024 champion Luke Humphries, a win he described as "the biggest moment of my darts career." In that match he hit a spectacular Big Fish checkout against the world number two, leaving him momentarily speechless.
"I don't know how to explain that victory. I did believe in my heart that I could maybe cause an upset but I would have to play it out of my skin," he reflected afterwards.
"I wouldn't say I played it out of my skin, but I played really well. I did say before the game started, to beat Luke, I need to take every chance that he gives me.
It's not like Luke to give a lot of chances away, but obviously I'm going to take it. A lot went in.
I was happy. I stole a few legs to win, but it's made the best moment of my darts career." The unexpected health scare has sparked discussion about player welfare in high‑pressure tournaments. While the PDC's on‑site medical team acted promptly, the incident underscores the physical demands placed on darts professionals, who often compete for hours under intense lighting and audience scrutiny. Experts note that sudden blood‑pressure spikes can be triggered by stress, dehydration, or underlying conditions, and that regular monitoring may help prevent similar episodes.
Looking ahead, the World Matchplay continues with defending champion Luke Littler aiming to retain his title, while other top names such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, and emerging talents are set to battle for the £1 million prize fund. Fans can follow the remaining action on Sky Sports or stream the coverage via NOW. Menzers himself remains optimistic about a swift recovery.
In a later update he thanked the darts community once more, emphasizing that his focus is on regaining full health and returning to the oche as soon as possible. "I appreciate all the messages and well‑wishes. It means a lot," he wrote. "I'll be back soon, ready to compete at the level everyone expects." The incident serves as a reminder that even in a sport often perceived as low‑impact, athletes are not immune to sudden health issues.
The PDC has reiterated its commitment to player safety, promising continued investment in medical resources and support for competitors facing similar challenges in the future.