Darts Federation of Australia

A Dutch Of Class

Raymond van Barneveld is the man who made Holland fall in love with darts and why it continues to grow in popularity back in his homeland.

Van Barneveld was working as a postman when he won the Embassy World Championship for the first time back in 1998 - an achievement that would change his life.

The 35-year-old returned 12 months later a national hero and managed to retain his title with a hard-fought 6-5 win over Ronnie Baxter.

After missing out on the coveted trophy for the last three years, Van Barneveld finally completed the hat trick by defeating Wales' Ritchie Davies 6-3 last night.

He commands the same respect as many Dutch footballers and millions of people in the Netherlands watch his matches on television.

"I think at least four million viewers watched this game, it was the same in 1999," said Van Barneveld.

"Since that time darts is more popular in Holland. I think four or five million viewers out of a population of 16 million is fantastic.

"I spoke to my manager and he said it would be mad when we get home. The football season in Holland is in its winter break, so people are watching darts."

Van Barneveld's success has also inspired many people back in Holland to take up the sport.

He added: "In a normal tournament like the Open Amsterdam there used to be between 300 to 400 people, but now there is about a 1,000 for a ranking tournament."

The millions watching in Holland also saw a possible future champion in Aberdare thrower Davies.

He has produced some impressive performances during the week and knocked out former champions John Walton and Tony David on his way to the final.

However, the 31-year-old revealed that he has no intention of giving up his job as a computer engineer to become a professional darts player.

"I should get my second degree in two years' time and I doubt it (becoming professional) very much," said Davies.

"Even if I became champion, I love what I'm doing and I think I'll stick to that."

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