The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has launched an immediate investigation and is considering the disqualification of Scottish darter Cameron Menzies following an alleged inappropriate gesture made towards his opponent, Rob Cross, during their high-stakes World Grand Prix clash on Wednesday evening.
The incident occurred in the immediate aftermath of Cross’s dramatic 2-1 victory in the first-round match at Dublin’s Citywest Hotel. As the players approached the oche to shake hands, cameras captured Menzies making a crude hand gesture directed at the 2018 World Champion as he turned away.
While the gesture was not broadcast live, it was picked up by wide-angle arena cameras and quickly circulated on social media, sparking immediate controversy and condemnation from fans.
The PDC released a brief statement confirming the disciplinary proceedings early Thursday: “The PDC is aware of an incident involving player Cameron Menzies following his match against Rob Cross at the BoyleSports World Grand Prix. The matter is under review in line with the PDC Rules of Conduct. A further statement will be made in due course.”
Sources within the PDC indicate that the governing body is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness. The potential sanctions range from a heavy fine to, in the most severe outcome, disqualification from the remainder of the tournament. Menzies was due to face the winner of the match between Peter Wright and Martin Schindler in the second round, a fixture that is now in serious doubt.
The rules of the PDC clearly state that players must “behave in a professional manner” and that bringing the sport into disrepute can result in severe penalties, including forfeiture of prize money and suspension.
Rob Cross’s management team has declined to comment publicly on the incident. Witnesses at the venue reported that Cross, who had just secured a hard-fought comeback win, did not appear to see the gesture in the moment.
The darts community has reacted with surprise and disappointment. Many pundits and fellow players have expressed that such conduct has no place in the sport, which prides itself on its passionate but generally good-natured atmosphere.
Cameron Menzies, known for his energetic and affable personality on the tour, has yet to make a public statement. His potential disqualification would represent one of the most significant disciplinary actions at a major televised darts event in recent years.
A decision from the PDC Disciplinary Committee is expected imminently, as the tournament is scheduled to continue this evening.
