Former World Darts Championship runner-up Kevin Painter left fans worried after he was seen struggling to throw his darts . The oche icon was competing against Canada's David Cameron in the first-round match of the World Seniors Matchplay on Friday. However, 'The Artist' hit a snag as he sought to hit back from 6-2 down with only 104 to clear in the ninth leg.
Painter, 57, was visibly struggling to throw at the York Barbican but managed to make a dramatic turn when he finally dispatched 19, treble 15, and double 20 in slick fashion. The crowd erupted in support for the long-standing PDC pro, showing solidarity in what appeared to be a difficult moment. Rumours have been circulating that Painter has been battling dartitis for a year or more.
Despite claiming that ninth leg, it was the last Painter would win as Cameron went on to triumph 8-3, wrapping up the result with a remarkable 152 clearance and conjure his own applause from the Barbican audience. Nonetheless, the Daily Express reported it was Painter who elicited the loudest applause that night, receiving accolades for his resilience in rounding off the game despite his adversity. Whisperings point to a shoulder injury hampering Painter for much of 2023, yet the hurdle he faced on Friday seemed of a different nature.
"Kevin Painter is showing so much heart and determination up there," wrote one impressed fan on social media. "Many would have just said I can't do this and conceded. It's horrible to see but he is leaving ev.