Kenyan veterinarian David Munyua has made history as the first Kenyan to win the Paddy Power World Darts Championship.
The 30-year-old, who is the first player from Kenya to qualify for the tournament, pulled off a stunning comeback against Belgium’s Mike De Decker, overturning a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 in a thrilling encounter on Thursday at Alexandra Palace.
Munyua had secured his place at the tournament after beating Cameron Carolissen in the final of the African Darts Group Championship qualifier.
Speaking after the historic victory, Munyua expressed his excitement adding that the win was unexpected.
“It is amazing. I didn’t expect it. But now it has happened, and I’m happy about it. It is a very big moment for the sport itself, for Africa and Kenya. It is humbling. The sport can grow. I’m happy I did my best. I’m happy the miscount [in the fourth set] didn’t affect me. I came back and still got the momentum, was focused and concentrated. I’m just happy the game didn’t go foul.”
From grass to grace
Munyua’s journey to the tournament was a huge challenge for a man who had reportedly never left Africa before. According to media reports, he had to appeal for sponsorship to cover his flight and accommodation costs for the London event.
He further achieved this historic win using a set of budget-friendly darts borrowed from fellow player Cam Crabtree, who was eliminated in his own first-round match.
He now awaits to play the winner between Dutch player Kevin Doets and England’s Matthew Dennant, who face off on Friday.
Following the win, Munyua will receive a hero’s welcome upon his return to Kenya.
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