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Raymond van Barneveld faces uncertainty over World Championship qualification

◆1 source

Raymond van Barneveld's place at the upcoming World Championship is uncertain because he has fallen to 49th in the world ranking. He is currently 40th in the Pro Tour ranking, with two floor tournaments in Leicester still to play, and could lose direct qualification if he drops another place. Van Barneveld, who would be making his 34th World Championship appearance, said he remained confident and was focusing on staying positive despite the pressure.

If he fails to qualify directly in Leicester, he plans to compete in another qualifying tournament in England. He said he would not retire again if he missed the event, but would remain active to defend his tour card next year.

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Sports

European Championship darts in Dortmund

8 sources

The European Championship in Dortmund began with eight Dutch players. Dirk van Duijvenbode lost 6-3 to Luke Woodhouse, who threw a nine-darter, while Niels Zonneveld and Danny Noppert also went out in the first round. Defending champion Gian van Veen beat Andrew Gilding 6-4, but lost 10-6 to Woodhouse in the second round. Kevin Doets eliminated Michael van Gerwen 6-3, and Wessel Nijman also lost his opening match; Jermaine Wattimena advanced from the first round. Doets and Wattimena were eliminated on Saturday, leaving no Dutch players in the tournament. In the quarter-finals, Krzysztof Ratajski beat world champion Luke Littler 10-6.