In a breathtaking display of nerve, precision, and national pride, Northern Ireland etched its name into darts history by clinching the 2025 World Cup of Darts—their first-ever title in the tournament’s 15 editions. The final showdown took place on 15 June 2025, in Frankfurt, Germany, where the duo of Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney edged out Wales’s Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton in a dramatic 10–9 decider.
The Road to Glory
Group Stage & Knockouts
As fourth seeds, Northern Ireland entered directly into the second round and navigated past tough opposition to reach the final. In a dominant semi-final, they smothered Germany 8–1—a statement win that echoed their intent .
The Final: A Titanic Battle
Wales built an early lead at 7–5, threatening to claim back-to-back titles. But Rock and Gurney mounted a resilient comeback to lead 9–7, only to miss four match darts and let Wales force a nail-biting last leg. In an 11‑dart decider, Gurney sealed the dramatic win with a double eight, sparking jubilant tears and celebration.
The Emotional Celebration
Emotions ran deep. Josh Rock forced back tears as he reflected: When we said we are paired together we’ll win… and we did it. Meanwhile, Gurney, his voice still raw with emotion, described the victory as more meaningful than any individual title.
Beyond the Title
Prize & Records
The duo earned a combined £80, 000, £40, 000 each—well deserved for a performance of this calibre. They also broke the record for most 180s in a World Cup final, hitting a staggering eleven maximums.
Impact on Darts
This milestone win makes Northern Ireland the sixth country ever to win the tournament—and the first new nation to do so since Australia's debut in 2022. It stands as a symbolic moment, inspiring a generation of darts fans across the Emerald Isle.
Northern Ireland’s rise culminated in this historic triumph—a perfect blend of raw talent, teamwork, and unshakeable composure. It wasn’t just a win—it was proof that when heart meets skill, Underdogs become Champions.