Ross Smith exhibits true colors with Cameron Menzies message after scary medical incident
Cameron Menzies was forced to withdraw from the World Matchplay Darts after falling ill during his match versus Ross Smith and his opponent has spoken out
Ross Smith has sent a message of support to Cameron Menzies after he was taken ill during their match. (Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
Ross Smith has sent a message of support to Cameron Menzies following a scary incident during their World Matchplay Darts clash on Wednesday night in Blackpool.
Menzies was forced to leave the stage after a medical incident as concerned fans watched on. During the fourth leg, Menzies appeared to stumble on the stage and slumped over. Smith was one of the first on hand to help him before he was seen by medics.
After being taken from stage, it was later confirmed that the 37-year-old had withdrawn from the competition, but was cleared to return to his hotel room and continue his recovery. The incident has been put down to high blood pressure.
Ross Smith helped Cameron Menzies off the stage after he took ill. (Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
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In a statement, the PDC said: “Cameron Menzies was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening.
“Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint. Following an assessment by the on-site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation.
“We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon.”
Smith, who was trailing 2-1 at the time, has taken to social media to show his support to his opponent. “So glad my good friend @CameronMenzies is ok,” he wrote.
“Health comes before anything. You will come back stronger than ever love ya mate.”
Menzies’ withdrawal means that Smith has progressed to the quarter-finals, where he will take on Gerwyin Price. The Welshman came out s 11-5 winner over Rob Cross.
Menzies went into the match against Smith on a high after overcoming former World Champion Luke Humphries in the previous round.
Speaking on Sky Sports, pundit Mark Webster said that Smith’s concentration would be on making sure that Menzies was ok. “Smith was obviously concerned,” he said.
Cameron Menzies beat Luke Humphries in the previous round. (Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
“He’ll be offering his support. While the medics are seeing to Cameron, he’s got to stay on the practice board. But ultimately it’s just about hoping that Cameron is okay at the minute.”
Speaking about Menzies’ unexpected withdrawal, pundit Glen Durrant added: “I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it’s all about Cameron Menzies.
“He’s in tip top form at the moment. It’s a real tough one to take.”
