🔗 Share this article

In a performance that rewrote the history books, debutant Justin Hood pulled off an unheard-of feat of 11 consecutive doubles, blasting his way to a commanding 4-0 victory over Josh Rock in the third round of the prestigious World Darts Championship.

A Dream Debut on the Biggest Stage

The 32-year-old, taking part in his maiden season on the premier professional circuit, extended his remarkable tournament run. His perfect doubling streak finally concluded when he had a chance to seal the match at 2-0 up in the fourth set. Unfazed, he regrouped to secure the victory with a superb 119 checkout in the very next leg.

“This isn't a storybook – I know what I can do and it’s nice to demonstrate it up there,” Hood stated in his on-stage interview. “The sole moment I felt any pressure was on my throw the leg before the last. I’m not used to this. Ordinarily, I get negative comments. This is mad.”

Setting the Tone with Blistering Start

Hood sent an early message about his intentions by winning the opening set with an 11-dart break. This left the higher-seeded Rock, the tournament's number 11, little to do but watch in amazement as Hood charged to victory, posting a formidable 101 average and hammering 10 maximum 180s.

This record-breaking win guarantees the newcomer a life-changing payday of at least £100,000 and edges him closer to his avowed ambition of launching a Chinese restaurant.

Clayton Climbs Amid Tough Battle

In other third round action, Jonny Clayton solidified his rise to fourth in the global rankings after engineering a comeback from a set down to defeat Andreas Harrysson 4-2.

The Swedish contender ultimately paid the price for squandering key opportunities, after establishing a 2-1 advantage and then missing four darts to re-establish a one-set lead at 3-2.

“There’s a lot on my mind and becoming world No. 4 was one of them,” admitted Clayton. “Every time I looked up, Andreas was finding his doubles. It was a real battle; I didn’t play my best darts and had a lot of loose throws, but that’s what the occasion does to you.”

Ratajski Progresses into Quarter-Finals

Joining them in the quarter-final stage is Krzysztof Ratajski, who found an extra gear in the closing phases to secure a 4-2 win over Luke Woodhouse, earning his spot in the prestigious last eight of the championship.