On New Year's Day 2025, the PDC World Darts Championship quarterfinals brought thrilling action at London’s Alexandra Palace, commonly known as Ally Pally. The day's highlight was the duel between Chris Dobey and Gerwyn Price, where Dobey emerged victorious with a score of 5-3, reaching his first-ever semifinal at the Darts World Championship.
Dobey, known as 'Hollywood,' faced the former world champion, Price, who started strong, winning the first two sets. Price capitalized on Dobey's initial jitters, taking the first set after executing excellent darts and maintaining high accuracy with his scoring. The opening exchanges saw Price holding his throw against Dobey, establishing a slim lead which seemed to put him on the path to victory.
"The Iceman" from Wales effectively utilized his experience, winning the first set with remarkable precision, showcasing why he was the favorite. Observers noted his psychological edge, as Price had won 14 out of their last 15 encounters. "He started off nervously, but I knew he would come back strong," said one spectator.
Nevertheless, Dobey rallied, demonstrating resilient mental strength by claiming the third set with a stunning average of 113.19, hitting key doubles when needed. Despite Price's efforts, Dobey started to disrupt the Welshman's rhythm, taking advantage of missed opportunities on doubles by Price, who was fading from his earlier intensity.
With Dobey's steady improvement, the match escalated to its most tense moments. After pulling the score to 2-2, the intensity surged, with both players missing darts at doubles, as Price struggled with his accuracy. DOBEY capitalized on Price's pressure, and his momentum culminated with him taking the next two sets to lead 4-2, putting him on the cusp of victory.
Even as Dobey faltered—missing five match darts during the seventh set—Price couldn’t convert his chances. He appeared to sense the growing pressure, often responding with erratic darts. Nevertheless, the match remained electrifying, with Price pulling back to 3-4, but Dobey's determination shone through, and he eventually sealed the match.
"I have never been more nervous at the double than during those match darts today," Dobey confessed to Sky UK after the match. His nail-biting victory sent shockwaves through Ally Pally, where the crowd gradually turned their support toward the underdog.
With Price's exit, having accumulated only 26.8% accuracy on his doubles, commentators reflected on his inconsistent scoring. Price himself admitted post-match, "It’s hard to play when you’re missing chances like I did today. I couldn’t find the doubles at the right times, and that's what cost me." His earlier promise as the defending champion shattered, signaling the end of his campaign for the title this year.
Later on, another captivating match occupied the spotlight, with Michael van Gerwen fending off Callan Rydz 5-3. Early on, Van Gerwen faced fierce competition, as Rydz, entering as the 43rd seed, initially controlled the pace with exceptional scoring averages over 100. Yet as the match progressed, he struggled to maintain his focus against Van Gerwen's seasoned shot-putting.
The players battled fiercely, with Rydz garnering admiration from fans who cheered him on enthusiastically amid exciting exchanges. The contest reached its peak as both players fought for every leg leading to intense atmosphere and primary sparks of creativity. Van Gerwen, realizing the stakes, turned up the heat, delivering powerful performances.
“It was never easy out there,” said Van Gerwen post-match, reflecting on his battle with Rydz. He knew he had to step up his game. His commanding break of throw clinched pivotal legs, nudging him closer to another semifinal appearance.
Both Dobey and Van Gerwen secured spots for the semifinals, marking high-stakes play which characterizes the Darts World Championship. With the tournament reaching its climax, anticipation among fans, and participants alike is at fever pitch.
Looking forward, the championship semifinals will showcase not just the skill but also the unpredictable nature of darts. The resilience displayed by players like Dobey, who has now established himself as a strong contender, reflects the spirit of the sport where every dart counts, and the outcome can hinge on just one throw at the right moment.
With the final outcomes set for January 3, all eyes will be on whether Dobey can continue his ascension against the formidable yet thrilling competition he expects from other top-ranked players. The energy surrounding the championship promises to deliver as fans eagerly await the next chapter of this iconic event.