Ross Smith Advances to World Matchplay Quarter-Finals After Cameron Menzies Forced to Withdraw Due to High Blood Pressure

English darts player Ross Smith advanced to the World Matchplay quarter-finals at Blackpool's Winter Gardens after his second-round opponent Cameron Menzies withdrew due to a medical episode caused by high blood pressure. The Scottish player became unwell while leading 2-1 in the match on Wednesday evening but was cleared by on-site medical staff and deemed safe to return to his accommodation.

What Happened During the Match

Menzies was in a commanding position during his encounter with Smith when his condition deteriorated mid-match. The 37-year-old displayed visible signs of distress, appearing unsteady on his feet and eventually doubling over in discomfort at the oche. Smith and the match officials immediately assisted Menzies off the stage, where he received medical attention from the PDC's on-site medical team.

The PDC later confirmed Menzies had experienced a sharp spike in blood pressure that caused dizziness and subsequent fainting. After a full assessment, medics determined he was well enough to leave the venue safely, though he was unable to return to competition that evening. The match was formally abandoned, and Smith advanced by walkover to face seventh-ranked Gerwyn Price in the next round.

Menzies Expresses Gratitude

Following the incident, Menzies took to social media to reassure supporters and express his appreciation for the swift response from venue staff and his opponent. He acknowledged that his withdrawal marked an unexpected end to what had been an impressive period of form, noting he had been playing some of his best darts in recent weeks. Menzies thanked Smith specifically for checking on his welfare during the emergency and praised the medical team's professionalism throughout the ordeal.

Tournament Progression

Smith's advancement sets up a quarter-final clash with Price, who secured his spot with an 11-5 victory over former world champion Ross Cross. In other second-round results, Dutch player Gian van Veen defeated fellow countryman Wessel Nijman 14-12 in a closely contested tie-break, while sixth-seeded James Wade defeated Ryan Searle 11-8 to complete the quarter-final lineup.