Cameron Menzies’ encounter with Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay was abruptly halted when the Scottish competitor began to feel light‑headed on the stage and subsequently lost consciousness at the Winter Gardens on Wednesday evening. At the time of the incident, Menzies was leading 2‑1 in the second‑round match, but he suddenly doubled over, swayed on his feet and appeared visibly unsteady.
Both Smith and the officials rushed to his side to offer assistance. The 37‑year‑old was escorted off the arena and attended to by the on‑site medical team, who later disclosed that Menzes had suffered a bout of high blood pressure. After a brief assessment, doctors determined that he was stable enough to return to his hotel for further monitoring. Menzies took to his Facebook page later that night to reassure supporters and thank those who had reached out.
"Thanks to everyone who's checked in and sent messages. I'm okay," he wrote. He went on to explain why he could not continue: "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 expressed gratitude toward the medical staff, his opponent, and the venue staff: "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.
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 was forced to withdraw, the match was officially recorded as abandoned, and Ross Smith advanced to the quarter‑finals where he will meet Gerwyn Price.
The Professional Darts Corporation 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." Following a short intermission, the programme continued with Gian van Veen facing Wessel Nijman. Sky Sports commentator Glen Durrant summed up the mood in the arena: "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." Menzies had earned his place in the second round by upsetting the 2024 champion Luke Humphries, beating him 10‑7 in a match he later 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 after the victory. "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 in post‑match interviews. "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 incident has sparked a wave of concern and well‑wishes across the darts community. Fellow players, fans and pundits have taken to social media to send messages of support, emphasizing the importance of health and safety in a sport that can be physically demanding under intense pressure. Looking ahead, the tournament remains wide open.
Defending champion Luke Littler is aiming to retain his title, while other top names such as Michael van Gerwen, Ross Smith and Gerwyn Price are all in contention. The event, which boasts a £1 million prize fund, continues to be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with streaming options available through NOW for viewers who prefer to watch online. As the World Matchplay progresses, organizers have reiterated their commitment to player welfare. The PDC has confirmed that medical staff will remain on standby for the remainder of the competition, and any further health concerns will be dealt with swiftly and transparently.
Fans can still enjoy the high‑octane action as the quarter‑finals and semi‑finals unfold, with the anticipation building toward a thrilling final. While Cameron Menzies’ campaign was cut short, his remarkable run and candid update have left a lasting impression, reminding everyone that even in the heat of competition, personal well‑being must always come first.