During the 2023 World Darts Championship, Vincent van der Voort entertained listeners with a hilarious anecdote from the competition featuring fellow players Callan Rydz and Jacques Labre. The story depicted an unexpected emotional moment amid the high tension typical of elite darts.
Van der Voort recalled having a solid lead of 5-2 against Labre when things took an unusual turn. "Ik hoorde ineens een piepend geluid achter me. Ik kijk om en zie dat hij gewoon begint te huilen, midden in de wedstrijd," he shared, highlighting the uniqueness of witnessing such raw emotion during play. Labre, who was struggling with missed doubles, couldn't hide his frustration, shedding tears on the stage.
Callan Rydz, meanwhile, was playing on an adjacent stage. Much to everyone's surprise, he found the moment amusing. "Hij stond erbij en lachte keihard," Van der Voort added, noting Rydz’s uncontrollable laughter at the scene. "Zo’n moment maak je bijna nooit mee," he said, capturing the rarity of such incidents during competitive play.
Despite the emotional backdrop, Rydz has been shining throughout the championship. Known as 'The Riot', Rydz has not only demonstrated his prowess with a dartboard but has also gained attention for his lively personality. He recorded impressive averages of 105.31 against Dimitri Van den Bergh, claiming one of the tournament's highest scores.
Interestingly, Rydz set the record for the highest average earlier in the competition with 107.06. This consistent performance follows his first significant breakthrough which was when he earned his tour card via the Challenge Tour back in 2020. Although he hadn’t clinched any major titles this year, his current form and the humor he brings to the game suggest he’s on the cusp of achieving something great.
The laughter from Rydz not only lightened the mood but also highlighted how emotionally charged darts can be, reminding fans and players alike of the sport's human side. Darts, often seen merely as competition, encompasses moments of drama and lightheartedness alike.
Reflecting on the impact of the incident, Van der Voort stated how humor is often shared among the players, crafting camaraderie and light tones even when the stakes are high. Rydz has taken this moment to heart, often replicates Labre's emotional scene as a jovial reminder each time he meets Van der Voort.
With Rydz's remarkable skill and vibrant humor, fans are eagerly awaiting his next match as he continues on his path through this year's championship. His unique ability to blend competitive spirit with laughter keeps audiences engaged and entertained.
The unpredictability of darts, whether it’s through sublime shooting or shared moments of emotion, truly creates memorable experiences for all involved. Van der Voort and Rydz's delightful exchange is sure to linger long after this championship ends.