Cameron Menzies' second‑round encounter with Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay was abruptly halted when the 37‑year‑old Scottish player suddenly felt light‑headed on the stage and later lost consciousness at the Winter Gardens on Wednesday night. At the time of the incident Menzies was leading 2‑1, but he doubled over in obvious distress, his balance wavering, prompting Smith and the officials to rush to his side. Medical staff quickly escorted Menzes off the arena, and the Professional Darts Corporation later confirmed that the player had suffered a spike in blood pressure, which caused the dizziness and fainting spell.
After undergoing a thorough medical assessment, doctors deemed him fit enough to return to his hotel, where he could rest and recover. Later that evening Menzies took to his Facebook page to reassure supporters that he was alright and to thank everyone who had sent well‑wishes.
"Thanks to everyone who's checked in and sent messages. I'm okay," he wrote. He added that, unfortunately, his condition prevented him from continuing the match, noting that it was not the finish he had hoped for after a period in which he felt he was playing some of the finest darts of his career. "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," Menzies continued.
He concluded with a heartfelt message to his opponent: "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 from fellow players and commentators.
Sky Sports analyst Glen Durrant said, "I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it's all about Cameron Menzes. He's in tip‑top form at the moment. It's a real tough one to take." Menzies had arrived at the tournament with considerable momentum.
In the first round he defeated the 2024 champion Luke Humphries 10‑7, a victory he later described as "the biggest moment of my darts career." He produced a spectacular "Big Fish" checkout against the world number two and, after the win, found himself at a loss for words. "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. "I wouldn't say I played it out of my skin, but I played really well.
I said before the game started that to beat Luke I need to take every chance 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 abrupt end to his campaign was a disappointment not only for Menzies but also for fans who had been eager to see how far the Scottish player could go after such a landmark win. The tournament will now continue without him, with the next match featuring Gian van Veen against Wessel Nijman after a short intermission. Looking ahead, the World Matchplay still promises high drama.
Defending champion Luke Littler is aiming to retain his title, while other top names such as Michael van Gerwen, Luke Humphries, and the ever‑consistent Gerwyn Price are all still in contention. The event, which boasts a £1 million prize fund, is being broadcast live on Sky Sports, and viewers can also stream the action via NOW. Menzies' health scare serves as a reminder of the physical demands of professional darts, where intense focus, travel, and the pressure of performing on big stages can sometimes take a toll.
The PDC's prompt medical response and the outpouring of support from the darts community highlight the sport's commitment to player welfare. Fans can look forward to seeing Menzies back on the oche once he has fully recovered. In the meantime, the tournament will forge ahead, with the quarter‑finals set to deliver more thrilling darts as the remaining competitors vie for the coveted title.