The 2025 Promi-Darts World Championship brought excitement and entertainment to fans on January 5, held at the Maritim Hotel in Düsseldorf, where six celebrities teamed up with professional dart players to compete for the coveted title.
Kept lively by the cheers of the audience, the tournament kicked off as each pairing vied for victory. Among the participants, former Borussia Dortmund player Patrick Owomoyela partnered with dart pro Stephen Bunting, creating a dynamic duo capable of captivating the crowd.
Owomoyela and Bunting proved their mettle throughout the event, managing to navigate their way to the final after showcasing impressive skills. They faced off against actress and singer Vanessa Mai, teamed with dart sensation Luke Humphries, who unfortunately struggled to meet expectations after failing to clinch success at the recent PDC World Championship.
Competitive action commenced with the stage divided between two groups, where the top teams competed for semifinal slots. The early matches saw Michael van Gerwen paired with comedian Simon Gosejohann, who delighted fans before being eliminated. Wright and football commentator Wolff-Christoph Fuss, along with Martin Schindler and TV star Evelyn Burdecki, also made impressive showings before falling short of the final.
Adding to the excitement, the tournament utilized the classic 501 scoring system, with teams starting at 501 points aiming to reduce their score to zero the quickest. The early rounds were fierce, showcasing the blend of celebrity charm with professionals' darting skills.
The notable absence of reigning champion Luke Littler raised eyebrows, as he had opted out of the event to prioritize personal time amid rising pressure following his championship win. Co-presenters joked about his age and the reasons behind his decision, highlighting the protective role his parents played.
The grand finale took place shortly after midnight, with Owomoyela and Bunting securing victory after edging out Mai and Humphries 3-2. The final match unfolded with tension, as the audience rallied behind the competitors. "When I learned I was invited, I took the first flight here; it’s such an honor to participate. A huge thank you to all my fans here,” expressed Bunting during the winner's interview, acknowledging the support from the crowd.
Despite the thrilling show, responses to the event were mixed. Owomoyela's casual demeanor and precise shots charmed many, yet criticisms emerged concerning the overall moderation. Observers found the presentations lacking the required emotional engagement, with calls for alternative hosts to inject vibrancy back to the experience.
Social media buzzed with reactions, encompassing both praise for the winners and humorous quips about certain players’ styles. Comments on the choice of shoes worn by the contestants sparked lighthearted debate, particularly concerning Burdecki's high heels during the competition. Some affirmed they might not be the best suited for the game.
The event emerged as more than just a competition—it stirred discussions on inclusivity, with many users wondering why no female players had yet clinched the title. Several fans expressed wishes for more frequent events, hoping for additional opportunities to see celebrities mixing it up with pros on the dartboard.
Owomoyela's victory marked not only his triumph but also brought forth aspirations for the future of the Promi-Darts World Championship. The excitement surrounding the event is undeniable, and as fans now speculate about the potential enhancements for the next installment, one thing remains certain: the fusion of sports and celebrity continues to capture attention and deliver thrilling moments.