US darts star Leonard Gates delighted darts fans with the most memorable walk-on of the World Championship so far – and then backed it up with a fine victory on the famous stage.
The 52-year-old former baseball player made his Alexandra Palace debut by taking on Dutchman Geert Nentjes, and he made quite the entrance for the first match of the Monday evening session.
Gates, who qualified by winning the North American Championship in New York in June, danced to the stage right in front of one of the PDC dance girls.
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His showmanship got the Ally Pally fans on-side straight away, with many chanting “USA, USA” to show their support. And although his first visit was a forgettable one, producing just 32, he made up for it by winning the first leg in 14 darts.
His moves went down well with fans on social media, with many saying they had “fallen in love” with The Soulger already.
“I want what Leonard Gates has had for tea. Must’ve been delicious,” said one. Another added: “I want Leonard Gates to win everything.” A third said: “Leonard Gates, what a lad.”
“It’s a Leonard Gates world,” declared a fourth.
Another said: “Leonard Gates getting the baby face reaction here. He’s loving life up there.”
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(Image: Sky Sports)
One fan asked: “When did Leonard Gates turn into @Wayne501Mardle on stage? Superb!”
Nentjes fought back to claim the first set but Gates, despite struggling with his counting at times, won the next two. There were a couple of mishaps as he closed in on victory, including busting 10 as he tried to split to avoid double five.
Gates missed six match darts before eventually getting over the line to win 3-1 against Nentjes, who had chronic issues with his doubles.
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