Gordon Mathers will return to the Ally Pally for the World Darts Championships in December after winning the DPA Oceanic Masters last weekend. This tournament is considered a qualifying tournament for players from Down Under.
The Australian Mathers has already taken part in the World Championships three times, most recently in the 2022 edition. At that time, Mathers, who has since lost a lot of weight, lost in the first round to Jaosn Heaver.
At the Oceanic Masters, Mathers won his first games 2-0 in sets against Brian Corbett and Craig Caldwell to secure a place in the quarter-finals. In the round of the last eight he was too strong against New Zealander Mark Cleaver with 3-1 sets.
Young talent Jaymie Hilton-Jones had to admit defeat in the semi-final against Mathers 3-1 in sets. In the final, Harley Kemp was defeated 3-1 in sets, making qualification for the Darts World Cup a reality.
“I knew I had to take my chance in the final and that’s what I did,” Mathers said afterwards. “I’m happy I won and I’m looking forward to the end of the year. I’ve been there before and I know what it’s about. I’m ready to start playing and I’m really looking forward to it.”
A total of three players will travel from Down Under to the Darts World Championship in London. Joe Comito was crowned winner of the DPA Ranking, while Ben Robb won the qualifying tournament for players from New Zealand.
In addition, Damon Heta will also be a guest at Alexandra Palace. The Australian has lived in the UK for several years and is one of the top 10 players in the world rankings. Australian icon Simon Whitlock and New Zealand Tour Card holder Haupai Puha still have a small chance of qualifying through the Pro Tour and could get an additional chance at the Tour Card holder qualifying tournament on Monday November 25th .
Results DPA Oceanic Masters
Quarterfinals
Harley Kemp 3-2 Kayden Milne
James Bailey 3-1 Josh Walters
Jaymie Hilton-Jones 3-0 Harrison Donegan
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Mark Cleaver
Semifinals
Harley Kemp 3-1 James Bailey
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Jaymie Hilton-Jones
Finale
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Harley Kemp
