🔗 Share this article

In a display that etched his name in the record books, debutant Justin Hood pulled off an unheard-of feat of 11 consecutive doubles, powering his way to a commanding 4-0 victory over Josh Rock in the third round of the prestigious World Darts Championship.

A Dream Debut on the Biggest Stage

The 32-year-old, competing in his maiden season on the top-tier professional circuit, extended his sensational tournament run. His perfect doubling streak only ended when he was throwing to seal the match at 2-0 up in the fourth set. Unfazed, he regrouped to secure the victory with a spectacular 119 checkout in the very next leg.

“This isn't a storybook – I know what I can do and it’s nice to demonstrate it up there,” Hood remarked in his post-match interview. “The only time I felt a bit of nerves was on my throw the leg before the last. I’m unaccustomed to this. Ordinarily, I get negative comments. This is absolutely insane.”

Setting the Tone with Blistering Start

Hood immediately signaled his formidable challenge by securing the opening set with an lightning-fast break of throw. This left the favored Rock, the tournament's number 11, powerless but watch in amazement as Hood stormed to victory, posting a formidable 101 average and hammering 10 maximum 180s.

This record-breaking win guarantees the newcomer a life-changing payday of at least £100,000 and edges him closer to his stated ambition of opening a Chinese restaurant.

Clayton Advances Amid Grueling Battle

In other third round action, Jonny Clayton confirmed his rise to fourth in the global rankings after engineering a fightback from a set down to defeat Andreas Harrysson 4-2.

The Swedish contender ultimately paid the price for squandering key opportunities, after establishing a 2-1 advantage and subsequently wasting four darts to re-establish a one-set lead at 3-2.

“There’s a lot on my mind and becoming world No. 4 was among them,” confessed Clayton. “Every time I looked up, Andreas was hitting his doubles. It was a real battle; I didn’t play my best darts and had many loose attempts, but that’s what pressure does to you.”

Ratajski Progresses into Quarter-Finals

Joining them in the next round is Krzysztof Ratajski, who pulled away in the closing phases to secure a 4-2 win over Luke Woodhouse, booking his place in the elite last eight of the championship.