Brody Klinge earned a spot in the quarter‑finals of the KenoGo Australian Darts Masters after pulling off a stunning upset over Ross Smith in Wollongong. Klinge was the only player from the Oceania region to claim a win on a spectacular opening day at the WIN Entertainment Centre, where he delivered an 11‑dart finish that sealed a dramatic, deciding‑leg victory against Smith.
The match was a roller‑coaster. Smith produced eight perfect darts during a thrilling encounter, but he ultimately faltered by missing two match darts in the final leg. Klinge, seizing the moment, celebrated what he described as the biggest win of his career. "I’m over the moon about that," Klinge said, noting his average of 96 compared with Smith’s 102.88.
"It was the most intense rush of adrenaline I've ever felt. I felt a lot more comfortable at the board this time, and I think that showed in my performance." He added, "Ross was throwing everything at me.
I was lucky he missed at the end there, but I took my chance. I’m on a free rein now. I’m just going to do my best and keep going. There’s no pressure on me." Because of that win, Klinge now faces Dutch star Gian van Veen on Finals Day.
Van Veen, the world No. 2, demonstrated his class earlier by hitting a spectacular 161 checkout to complete a 6‑3 win over Raymond Smith. The headline of the evening, however, belonged to James Wade.
The veteran produced an astonishing average of 112.73 – the second‑highest ever recorded in a World Series of Darts event held in Australia – as he steam‑rolled through Tim Pusey in six straight legs. Wade’s performance was a masterclass in precision and composure. He capped the win with a 164 finish and secured a quarter‑final meeting with Stephen Bunting.
"That felt amazing. Everything just fell into my hands there," Wade admitted. "I think I’m sometimes guilty of forgetting how lucky I am to do what I do, but I’m just happy to be here and I’m playing alright. If I replicate that level tomorrow everyone is stuffed, but tomorrow is a different day!" The tournament also featured a host of other compelling match‑ups.
2024 champion Gerwyn Price will meet Josh Rock in a tantalising last‑eight clash on Saturday after delivering a dominant 6‑2 victory over Simon Whitlock, which included four consecutive legs and back‑to‑back checkouts of 124 and 108. Rock mirrored that form, winning four straight legs to beat Adam Leek 6‑3. Jonny Clayton, meanwhile, will take on Australian number one Damon Heta after a hard‑fought 6‑3 win over Ben Robb, keeping his hopes of back‑to‑back World Series titles alive. Heta posted an impressive 102.39 average in his 6‑2 demolition of fellow Aussie Joe Comito, while Stephen Bunting staged a comeback from 0‑3 down to defeat Mal Cuming 6‑3.
The 2026 Australian Darts Masters will culminate with quarter‑finals, semi‑finals and the final during a blockbuster evening session at the WIN Entertainment Centre on Saturday. **First round (best of 11 legs)** - Brody Klinge 6‑5 Ross Smith - Stephen Bunting 6‑3 Mal Cuming - Josh Rock 6‑3 Adam Leek - James Wade 6‑0 Tim Pusey - Gian van Veen 6‑3 Raymond Smith - Jonny Clayton 6‑3 Ben Robb - Gerwyn Price 6‑2 Simon Whitlock - Damon Heta 6‑2 Joe Comito **Quarter‑finals (best of 11 legs, from 10 am UK time)** - Gerwyn Price vs Josh Rock - James Wade vs Stephen Bunting - Gian van Veen vs Brody Klinge - Jonny Clayton vs Damon Heta **Semi‑finals (best of 13 legs)** - Price/Rock vs Wade/Bunting - Van Veen/Klinge vs Clayton/Heta **Final (best of 15 legs)** - To be decided.
Beyond the Australian event, darts fans are also looking ahead to the BoyleSports World Grand Prix. World No. 1 Luke Littler will defend his title, with live coverage slated for September 28 – October 4 on Sky Sports. Viewers can also stream darts and a variety of other top‑level sports through the NOW platform.
Overall, the Australian Darts Masters has delivered a blend of surprise upsets, high‑scoring fireworks, and compelling storylines that set the stage for an exciting climax. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a die‑hard fan, the upcoming quarter‑finals and beyond promise plenty of drama, skill, and the occasional jaw‑dropping checkout that makes darts such a captivating sport.