Philippine darts player Sandro Eric Sosing has withdrawn from the World Darts Championship, prompting immediate concern among fans and tournament officials. The 41-year-old was scheduled to compete against Englishman Ian White at Alexandra Palace on Friday but fell ill with chest pains just minutes before the match.
According to the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), Sosing reported feeling unwell during practice. Medical staff at the venue assessed his condition and decided to take him to the hospital for additional treatment. "Sandro Eric Sosing has withdrawn from his match with Ian White on medical grounds. Sosing reported chest pains whilst practicing and following an on-site assessment by medical staff he has been taken for treatment," the PDC stated.
This unforeseen incident has not only affected Sosing but also the tournament's scheduling. With Sosing unable to compete, White has received a bye to the second round. He will now face fellow Englishman Ritchie Edhouse, who awaits the matchup with open arms. This turn of events allows White to bypass the first-round challenge entirely, which could provide him with valuable rest as the tournament progresses.
John McDonald, the MC at Alexandra Palace, delivered the news to the crowd moments before the match was due to start: "Sosing has been taken to hospital and we will keep you posted on the updates. Unfortunately, this match will not take place." The swift adjustment to the tournament’s schedule saw Stephen Bunting’s match against Kai Gotthardt moved forward, with Bunting eventually winning 3-1.
Sosing, ranked 225th in the world, qualified for the championship after finishing as the runner-up at the PDC Asian Championship earlier this year. He made his debut at this prestigious tournament last year, facing Lee Evans but was eliminated without winning a set. His participation this year was highly anticipated, particularly because he is one of four Filipino players competing.
Fans and fellow competitors have expressed their concern for Sosing, hoping for his quick recovery. A spokesperson for the PDC emphasized the organization’s commitment to player health and safety, affirming they will keep the public informed about Sosing's condition.
The atmosphere at Alexandra Palace continues to pulsate with excitement as other matches carry on. The audience, including pop-star Ed Sheeran, filled the stands, cheering for their favorite players. The tournament remains competitive, but the sudden withdrawal of Sosing has cast a cloud over the festivities.
White, who is now gearing up for his match against Edhouse, isn't letting the situation dampen his spirits. The seasoned player expressed well wishes for Sosing and gratitude for the opportunity to move forward. With the stakes high at the World Championship, every match counts, and players are beginning to understand the unpredictable nature of the competition.
The pathway to victory for White will not be easy, as Edhouse poses potential challenges. The winner between those two will likely face Luke Littler, touted as the new rising star of darts, should he succeed against Ryan Meikle on Saturday.
Sosing's immediate health takes precedence over the tournament, as fans and competitive darts acknowledge the importance of well-being above sporting accolades. The disruption of the match was unexpected, but the focus has now shifted to his recovery and the continuation of the championship.
With the remaining players pushing forward, the World Darts Championship stands as a reminder of the thrill and unpredictability of sports. For now, the darts community looks forward to updates on Sosing’s health, and with hopes for his swift return to the sport he loves.
