Alexander Merkx's inaugural appearance at the PDC World Darts Championship was nothing short of impressive as he secured a clean 3-0 victory over England's Stephen Burton on Friday. Despite the win, the match was not without its trials, with both players posting below-par averages. Merkx's average was 78.41, slightly overshadowing Burton's poor performance at 75.63.
Post-match, Merkx, affectionately known as 'Alexander the Great', expressed his pride about his debut, stating, "It felt really good. It felt even more than it was, I think, because I saw the averages." This acknowledgment came during his press conference, where he reflected on what it means to have won even though the game itself was less than stellar.
This was Merkx's first competition at the famed Alexandra Palace, yet the talented Dutch darts player had already made waves at Lakeside, having reached the third round earlier this year. His experience on the Challenge Tour this year was pivotal, providing him the confidence he needed. He remarked about the Challenge Tour, “It’s really strong competition, I think many players say the level on Challenge Tour is about the same as on Pro Tour.”
Looking forward, Merkx is set to face Chris Dobey, last year's quarter-finalist, which raises the stakes considerably. "I will have to raise my level by at least 15 to 20 points," Merkx realistically acknowledged about the upcoming match.
Merkx’s preparation for the championship was intensive. He stated he'd trained hard on set-play formats, engaging with both competitive and less experienced opponents to build his confidence. While he faced nerves prior to entering the tournament, he found his footing shortly after his first few throws, stating, “The nerves were really tough this morning, but after my first few darts, it felt good. That gave me the confidence to win this match.”
Merkx's path to the championship stage was not without its complications. He revealed he had been too focused on the elusive Tour Card prior to the tournament, stating, "My girlfriend said I was more concentrated on the Tour Card than on my performance on the stage of the World Championship." The drama surrounding Wesley Plaisier's exit from the top 64, which meant Merkx did not secure the Tour Card, may have inadvertently relieved some of the pressure off his shoulders.
Reflecting on his breakthrough, he stated, “Winning like today makes everything more than worthwhile,” implying the culmination of hard work paid off during his first match.
Despite the challenging nature of the competition represented by Dobey, Merkx is determined to bring his best self to the stage. "I hope so!" he replied with optimism when asked if he could deliver a marked improvement for his next game.
Celebrated attendees at the Alexandra Palace included pop star Ed Sheeran, underscoring the event's prominence on the sporting calendar. Merkx was enthusiastic about performing on such a grand stage. Comparing his previous Lakeside experience to Alexandra Palace, he said, "At Lakeside, you could literally hear what every spectator said, whereas here thousands of fans create such great atmosphere.”
Alexander Merkx's substantial victory over Burton serves as momentum as he prepares to take on Dobey this Saturday at 16:30. With his determination, growing experience, and aspirations for greatness, darts fans are excited about what 'Alexander the Great' will bring to the championship, having succeeded against the odds to reach this point.
Regardless of the fierce competition he anticipates, Merkx remains resolute, ready to continue his adventure within the PDC World Darts Championship.
