Christian Kist electrified the crowd at the Alexandra Palace on December 18, 2024, during the first round of the 2025 PDC Darts World Championship by throwing the tournament's first-ever 9-darter. The moment came against Madars Razma, adding to Kist's stature as he returned to the world stage following last year's memorable events.
The atmosphere was palpable as Kist, the ex-Lakeside champion, faced Razma. Both dart players quickly adjusted to the high stakes of the match, easily transitioning from the nerves of the stage to the competition. After four hands of laser focus, the first set hinged on the fifth leg, with Kist standing poised at the oche. All eyes were on him as he achieved darting perfection, hitting two sizeable 180s followed by taking out 141 with pinpoint precision, ending with a double 12. Cheers erupted across the pavilion as his nine darts washed over the board effortlessly, sending fans deep within the adrenaline rush.
This remarkable achievement rewarded Kist not only with the first set but also with significant financial bonuses. Through the BIGGER 180 campaign associated with sponsor Paddy Power, both Kist and one lucky fan, Chris, walked away with £60,000 each, alongside another £60,000 destined for Prostate Cancer UK, highlighting the charitable elements of the event.
"I am happy about it, but a bit disappointed to have lost the match," said Kist after the game, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of the night. His triumph with the 9-darter illuminated the experience, but it was tainted with the sting of defeat as Kist could not hold on to his momentum going forward.
Despite the jubilation of his performance, the second set saw Kist resting on his laurels, and Razma took advantage of this. The balance shifted, as Razma secured his first break of the match with the introduction of his own offense, forcing Kist to regain focus to maintain competitiveness. This led to several back-and-forth moments of high tension where both players exhibited their staggering abilities but ended with Kist conceding the surprise break back.
Razma capitalized on Kist’s slip with unyielding dedication, later leading to his victory with the scoreline ending at 3-1. The upset was claimed after Kist had fought back valiantly to tie the game, but was bested, with Razma claiming victory comfortably with legs of 11 darts, which showcased his ability to command the stage well past Kist's dazzling move.
Fans were kept on the edge of their seats throughout the match, with commentators Basti Schwele and Robert Marijanovic not only documenting the game but also losing themselves to excitement as Kist produced one of the most iconic moments of the tournament.
Among the delighted faces was Chris, the fortunate spectator who won the sizeable cash prize. He expressed his disbelief and excitement post-match, saying: "When the 9-darter happened, I told my group: ‘Oh my God, just think, we are the winners right now.’ And all of a sudden, we were." His joy painted the evening with vibrant celebration, as he wasn’t anticipating such windfall with his visit to the Ally Pally, only hours earlier leading what he called his ‘normal life’.
The night witnessed not just the glory of darts, but encapsulated the ups and downs athletes endure, reminding both competitors and fans alike of the unpredictable nature woven deep within the sport. The tournament promises many more moments of excitement with stars like Mensur Suljovic preparing for their outings, but Kist’s 9-darter will surely linger as both a highlight and lesson on the elusive nature of success.
Even though the 9-darter won’t guarantee progress, it has firmly cemented Christian Kist not just as another competitor but as part of the history-making legacy of the Darts World Championship, prompting spectators to anticipate his return and possible next moves following this notable performance.
