After becoming the first Kenyan to qualify for and win a match at the PDC World Darts Championship, the 30-year-old David Munyua is already looking ahead to 2026, eager to defend his African title and return to the sport’s biggest stage.
Munyua earned his historic place by dominating the African qualifiers, beating South Africa’s Cameron Carolissen with calm precision. At the PDC World Championship, he shocked spectators by coming from 2–0 down to defeat Belgium’s world number 18, Mike De Decker, 3–2 in a tense match that captured the Alexandra Palace arena.
“It was history,” Munyua said. “Winning against the world’s number 18 made me the first Kenyan to win a match at the PDC. On that day, I just believed in myself.”
His campaign ended in the second round with a 3–0 loss to Dutch player Kevin Doets. But Munyua sees the defeat as a learning opportunity. “Losing is also winning because you learn from it,” he said. “It showed me what I need to improve on in my game.”
The win sparked national pride. “Kenyans were very proud on social media. Even those who did not know about darts started taking an interest,” he said. “Players from Kenya and across Africa congratulated me, and even President William Ruto sent his regards.”
Reflecting on his first global outing, Munyua described the experience as invaluable. “This is one of the highest-ranked sports in the UK, and the competition there was intense. I learned so much.” Beyond the board, he cherished a personal highlight: visiting Stamford Bridge and watching Chelsea play, the team he has supported since childhood.
Looking ahead, Munyua is focusing on sponsorships to ensure regular exposure to elite competition. “I want to find more sponsors from Kenyan companies so I can participate in big tournaments. High-level competition keeps you on your toes,” he said.
He also hopes to grow the sport across Africa. “In Europe, young players get early exposure and structured training. In Africa, darts is mainly played by older men. We need to introduce the sport in schools to nurture talent from an early age.”
Munyua’s rise signals a new era for African darts. With belief, experience, and growing support, he is determined to turn 2026 into a year of continental and global success.
About the Author
