Jonny Clayton emerged victorious over his fellow Welshman Gerwyn Price with an 8-4 scoreline to claim the New Zealand Darts Masters crown in Auckland. The tournament saw Clayton navigate a challenging draw, dispatching Gian van Veen and James Wade before meeting Price in the championship match, where he sealed his second World Series of Darts title with a dramatic 124 checkout that landed on the bullseye.
From the outset, Clayton set the tone with a spectacular 158 finish, quickly establishing a 3-0 lead. He never looked back, building a commanding 7-1 advantage as the match progressed. Although Price rallied late, winning three consecutive legs, Clayton held firm, ultimately avenging his 2022 final loss to the same opponent in Hamilton.
Reflecting on the win, Clayton said, "It was great to play in the final with my World Cup partner. It just shows that two rugby boys can play darts, and to play against each other in the world of rugby here in New Zealand, I've got a smile on my face. I really enjoyed that. It's 1-1 now, so next year – winner takes all!
I'm looking forward to Wollongong next week. Hopefully the sun will shine on me and I can lift another trophy!" The New Zealand Darts Masters formed part of the World Series of Darts, a collection of high‑profile events that bring top players to new audiences around the globe.
Clayton's path to the final was anything but easy. In the last‑16 round he edged past Haupai Puha 6-5, demonstrating composure under pressure. The quarter‑finals saw him overcome Gian van Veen 6-3, while the semi‑finals featured a dominant 7-2 victory over James Wade, confirming his status as a serious contender for the title.
Price, meanwhile, displayed his own brand of brilliance throughout the tournament. He began by dispatching Mark Cleaver 6-1 in the opening round, then survived a tight 6-5 battle against Adam Leek before cruising past Ross Smith 6-5 and James Wade 6-4 in the later stages. His resilience in the final, however, was not enough to overturn Clayton's early dominance.
The final itself was a showcase of high‑scoring darts and strategic play. Clayton's 124 checkout on the bullseye was a pivotal moment, turning the tide decisively in his favour. Price fought back with a series of high trebles, but Clayton's consistency on the double and his ability to maintain a high average kept him ahead throughout the match.
Beyond the on‑stage action, the event highlighted the growing popularity of darts in the Southern Hemisphere. The tournament attracted a vibrant crowd in Auckland, with fans cheering loudly for both local and international players.
The atmosphere was further amplified by live coverage on Sky Sports, which continues to broadcast darts events worldwide, bringing the excitement of the sport into homes across the globe. For viewers interested in catching future darts action, Sky Sports offers a comprehensive schedule, and fans can also stream matches via the NOW platform. In addition, the Love the Darts podcast provides in‑depth analysis, player interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes stories for enthusiasts who want to dive deeper into the sport. Looking ahead, the darts calendar remains packed.
After his triumph in New Zealand, Clayton will travel to Wollongong for the upcoming event, hoping to add another trophy to his collection. Meanwhile, the BoyleSports World Grand Prix is set to return to Sky Sports from September 28 to October 4, with Luke Littler defending his title and a host of other top players ready to compete for the prestigious prize. The New Zealand Darts Masters not only delivered high‑quality competition but also reinforced the sport's global reach. With players like Clayton and Price showcasing skill, determination, and sportsmanship, darts continues to captivate audiences and grow its fan base.
Whether you're a seasoned follower or a newcomer, the excitement of a live darts match—complete with dramatic checkouts, intense leg battles, and the occasional unexpected upset—offers something for everyone. In summary, Jonny Clayton's 8-4 victory over Gerwyn Price marked a significant milestone in his career, adding a second World Series title to his résumé and confirming his place among the elite of modern darts.
The event's memorable moments, from the early 158 finish to the final bullseye checkout, will be remembered by fans and will undoubtedly inspire future tournaments across the globe.