The PDC World Darts Championship throws open its doors at Alexandra Palace this evening, with much of the early focus on defending champion Luke Littler as he begins his title defence against Darius Labanauskas.
But for Carlow darts fans, all eyes are on “Scuba” Steve Lennon, who takes to the stage tomorrow.
Lennon, ranked 76th in the world, returns to the sport’s biggest night under the famous Ally Pally lights—making his seventh appearance since his debut in 2018. His best run came in 2022, when he reached the third round before falling to Mervyn King. Lennons last time competing in the tournament, he exited in the second round at the hands of Jonny Clayton.
He faces a tough opener against Australia’s Damon Heta, who is ranked at 16th in the world, but supporters will no doubt be willing him on from home and in the arena—where his trademark walk-on to E.L.O.’s Mr Blue Sky always brings a lift to the crowd.
Elsewhere on opening night, 18-year-old sensation Littler headlines the evening session, while 2023 champion Michael Smith meets Lisa Ashton in his first-round tie.
A record 128 players line up at this year’s championship, expanded from 96 last year.
