Jermaine Wattimena has successfully advanced to the second round of the 2025 PDC World Darts Championship, exhibiting his prowess by defeating Swiss player Stefan Bellmont with a convincing score of 3-0. The match took place at the iconic Alexandra Palace, London, on December 15, 2024, and marked the beginning of Wattimena's campaign during this prestigious tournament.
This year’s championship is particularly noteworthy as it features Bellmont as the first-ever Swiss player to qualify. Despite this historic moment, Wattimena, known as ‘The Machine Gun’, showcased his exceptional skill and determination, aiming to build on his success from the previous year’s competitions.
Wattimena opened the match with noticeable confidence, snatching the first set with relative ease at 3-1. He finished strong, with his average scoring hitting 98.54, which clearly demonstrated his top form. Bellmont, who played valiantly and averaged 92.95, found himself struggling against Wattimena’s powerful throws.
During the match, Wattimena’s scoring included exceptional finishes. With initial caution, both players shared similar scoring patterns at the outset. Wattimena started with an 18-darter, followed closely by Bellmont matching with his own 18-darter. After taking the initiative with a 14-darter, the pace quickened, and Wattimena sealed the first set without losing grip on the momentum he had generated.
Wattimena maintained his composure as the second set began, executing a remarkable 'tops-tops' finish from 95 to break the Swiss player’s early lead. His scoring was impressive, rarely allowing Bellmont any chance to dominate. Reflecting on the mechanics of the game, it became evident how the successful darts from Wattimena were consistently overwhelming for Bellmont, who, for moments, would falter and miss key shots.
Bellmont did manage to put some pressure on Wattimena, especially during the third set, where he briefly led using double 16. The Swiss player's efforts were noteworthy, having reached this level of competition, with the capacity to score five maximums, but he failed to capitalize on his chances effectively. Wattimena struck back decisively, seizing the moment to clinch the victory with another solid performance, characterized by his 15-darter concluding the match.
Looking forward, Wattimena is set to face off against seasoned player James Wade on December 16, 2024. The challenge is significant, considering Wade’s reputation as an eleven-time major winner. This upcoming match is expected to attract considerable attention, as both competitors hold substantial experience within the sport, and fans are eager to see who will advance.
The 2025 PDC World Darts Championship, heralded for its competitive spirit and extraordinary talents, runs from December 15, 2024, to January 3, 2025. This year, it includes 16 Dutch players and 3 Belgians vying for glory and the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy. Defending champion Luke Humphries will also be watched closely as he attempts to maintain his title.
The excitement builds as the championship continues to invite spectators with thrilling matches and heart-stopping finishes. Readers can expect high-level darting action throughout the tournament, as this platform consistently showcases the best talents the sport has to offer, promising aesthetic brilliance with every throw.
With the stakes high and aspirations to lift the trophy ever strong, Wattimena’s initial victory sets the tone for what could be another remarkable run at this year’s championship. "A WIN FOR WATTIMENA!" cheerfully encapsulates not only his performance but the essence of competition present at this exceptional event, eleving the spirits of darting fans everywhere.
