Surprise Package Justin Hood Smashes Record with Stunning 11 Straight Doubles in Global Showdown Rout
In a performance that rewrote the history books, debutant Justin Hood achieved an unheard-of feat of 11 consecutive doubles, powering his way to a dominant 4-0 victory over Josh Rock in the third round of the elite World Darts Championship.
A Fairytale Start on the Grandest Arena
The 32-year-old, competing in his first ever season on the top-tier professional circuit, extended his sensational tournament run. His flawless doubling streak finally concluded when he was throwing to seal the match at 2-0 up in the fourth set. Unfazed, he regrouped to clinCH the victory with a superb 119 checkout in the very next leg.
“This isn't a storybook – I know what I can do and it’s nice to prove it up there,” Hood stated in his on-stage interview. “The only time I felt any pressure was on my throw the leg before the last. I’m not used to this. Ordinarily, I get hate messages. This is mad.”
Laying Down a Marker with Electrifying Start
Hood sent an early message about his formidable challenge by winning 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 historic win guarantees the newcomer a life-changing payday of at least ÂŁ100,000 and edges him closer to his stated ambition of opening a Chinese restaurant.
Clayton Climbs Amid Tough Battle
In other last-16 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, having led a 2-1 advantage and then missing four darts to regain a one-set lead at 3-2.
“A number of things on my mind and moving to world No. 4 was among them,” admitted Clayton. “Whenever I looked up, Andreas was finding his doubles. It was tough; I didn’t play my best darts and had many loose attempts, but that’s what the occasion does to you.”
Ratajski Progresses into Last Eight
Joining them in the quarter-final stage is Krzysztof Ratajski, who found an extra gear in the closing phases to secure a 4-2 win over Luke Woodhouse, earning his spot in the prestigious last eight of the championship.