Cameron Menzies’ encounter with Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay was abruptly halted on Wednesday night when the 37‑year‑old Scottish player suddenly felt light‑headed on stage and later lost consciousness at the Winter Gardens venue. At the time of the incident Menzies was leading 2‑1 in the second‑round match, but he doubled over in obvious distress, his balance wavering. Both Smith and the on‑stage officials rushed to his side, and medical staff were called in without delay.
After being escorted off the stage, Menzers received immediate medical attention. The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) later confirmed that he had suffered a spike in blood pressure, which caused the dizziness and fainting spell.
Following a series of checks, doctors deemed him stable enough to return to his hotel for further observation and rest. Later that evening Menzies turned to social media to reassure his supporters.
Posting on Facebook he wrote, "Thanks to everyone who's checked in and sent messages. I'm okay." He went on to explain why he could not continue, saying, "Unfortunately I wasn't well enough to carry on with 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 people who had looked after him: "I'm grateful to the medical team for looking after me, to Ross for checking on me, and to everyone at the Winter Gardens for their support." In a final note he wished his opponent well, stating, "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." Because Menzies could not continue, 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 Menzies 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 sparked a wave of sympathy across the darts community. Sky Sports commentator Glen Durrant remarked, "I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it's all about Cameron Menzies.
He's in tip‑top form at the moment. It's a real tough one to take." After a brief intermission, the programme moved on to Gian van Veen’s clash with Wessel Nijman. Menzies had earned his place in the second round by defeating the 2024 champion Luke Humphries 10‑7, a win he described as "the biggest moment of my darts career." He produced a spectacular Big Fish checkout against the world No. 2 and was left speechless by the achievement.
"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 said after the match. "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." Menzies’ sudden health scare underscores the physical demands that professional darts can place on players, especially in high‑pressure tournaments like the World Matchplay. While the sport is often viewed as a leisurely pastime, competitors must maintain intense concentration for extended periods, and the adrenaline surge can affect cardiovascular responses. The PDC’s prompt medical response highlights the organization’s commitment to player safety.
Looking ahead, the tournament will continue without Menzies, with Luke Littler defending his title and other top names such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, and Beau Greaves still in contention across various PDC events. Fans can follow the remaining matches on Sky Sports or stream them via NOW. Menzies’ situation also serves as a reminder to athletes at all levels to monitor their health and seek immediate assistance when symptoms arise. His openness about the episode and his gratitude toward the medical staff, his opponent, and the venue staff have earned him widespread respect.
The darts community now hopes for his swift recovery and looks forward to seeing him back on stage, hopefully soon enough to add another chapter to what has already been a remarkable career.