What's happened
Lim, aged 71, set a new record at the World Darts Championship by defeating Jeffrey de Graaf. He will face Luke Humphries in the next round, aiming to repeat his previous upset against the 2024 champion. The match highlights the longevity and competitiveness of older athletes in the sport.
What's behind the headline?
Lim's record-breaking performance exemplifies the enduring appeal of darts for older athletes, challenging stereotypes about age and athleticism. His victory at 71 demonstrates that skill, experience, and mental resilience can sustain high-level competition beyond typical athletic prime. The upcoming match against Humphries, a rising star with multiple titles, will test whether Lim's longevity can translate into another upset. This story also highlights the sport's inclusivity, where age is less a barrier and more a testament to mastery. The narrative of Lim's career, blending nostalgia with ongoing competitiveness, will likely inspire older players and attract diverse audiences, ensuring darts remains a sport of both tradition and innovation.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports Lim's historic nine-darter achievement and his upcoming match against Luke Humphries, emphasizing his long career and the significance of his age record. BBC News highlights his debut win and his upcoming challenge against Littler, providing context on his career and the tournament's competitive landscape. Sky News details Lim's victory over Jeffrey de Graaf and his rematch with Humphries, focusing on the crowd's support and the sport's age diversity. The contrasting coverage underscores Lim's status as a legendary figure and the sport's evolving dynamics, with some sources emphasizing his experience and others highlighting the emerging talent of younger players.
How we got here
Lim, known as the 'Singapore Slinger', previously threw the first nine-darter in 1990. He broke the record held by John MaGowan, who was 67 in 2008. Lim's participation underscores the increasing age diversity in professional darts, where experience often translates into competitive advantage. His recent win at Alexandra Palace continues his long-standing career, which has seen him remain active well into his seventies.
Go deeper
More on these topics