Underdog Justin Hood Demolishes Record with Astonishing 11 Straight Doubles in World Championship Rout
In a performance that rewrote the history books, debutant Justin Hood achieved an unprecedented feat of 11 consecutive doubles, blasting his way to a commanding 4-0 victory over Josh Rock in the last 16 of the elite World Darts Championship.
A Dream Debut on the Grandest Arena
The 32-year-old, competing in his first ever season on the premier professional circuit, extended his sensational tournament run. His perfect doubling streak finally concluded when he was throwing to seal the match at 2-0 up in the fourth set. Undaunted, he composed himself to secure the victory with a superb 119 checkout in the following leg.
āThis isn't a storybook ā I know what I can do and itās nice to prove it up there,ā Hood remarked in his on-stage interview. āThe sole moment I felt a bit of nerves was throwing the leg before the last. Iām unaccustomed to this. Ordinarily, I get hate messages. This is mad.ā
Setting the Tone with Blistering Start
Hood immediately signaled his intentions by securing the opening set with an 11-dart break. This left the favored Rock, the tournament's number 11, powerless but watch in awe as Hood stormed to victory, posting a formidable 101 average and hammering 10 maximum 180s.
This record-breaking win ensures the newcomer a life-changing payday of at least £100,000 and brings him closer to his stated ambition of opening a Chinese restaurant.
Clayton Advances Amid Tough Battle
In other third round action, Jonny Clayton confirmed his ascent to the number four spot in the global rankings after mounting a fightback from a set down to defeat Andreas Harrysson 4-2.
The Swedish contender was made to regret for failing to capitalize on key opportunities, after establishing a 2-1 advantage and then missing four darts to re-establish a one-set lead at 3-2.
āThereās a lot on my mind and becoming world No. 4 was among them,ā admitted Clayton. āWhenever I looked up, Andreas was finding his doubles. It was a real battle; I didnāt play my top darts and had a lot of loose throws, but thatās what pressure does to you.ā
Ratajski Rolls into Last Eight
Joining them in the next round is Krzysztof Ratajski, who found an extra gear in the later stages to secure a 4-2 win over Luke Woodhouse, earning his spot in the elite last eight of the championship.