LONDON— Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) player Cameron Menzies has been suspended from the sport for three years following an investigation into an incident at the recent PDC World Championship. The ban comes after Menzies was found to have made a “violent lewd gesture” directed at a spectator following his first-round defeat.
The governing body confirmed the disciplinary action in a statement released Tuesday, citing a breach of its rules on professional conduct. The incident occurred off-stage following Menzies’ 3-1 loss to Luke Littler at Alexandra Palace in December. While not broadcast live, the gesture was witnessed by multiple spectators and officials, prompting an immediate investigation.
The PDC statement read: “Following a comprehensive investigation and disciplinary hearing, the PDC has taken the decision to suspend Cameron Menzies from all participating in PDC events for a period of three years. This relates to a serious breach of the PDC’s rules of conduct involving a violent and lewd gesture made towards a member of the audience after his match at the 2024 PDC World Darts Championship. Such behaviour is completely unacceptable and has no place in darts.”
Menzies, 34, a plumbing and heating engineer from Musselburgh, Scotland, who balances his job with professional darts, later issued a public apology. In a social media post, he expressed “deep regret and shame” for his actions, acknowledging that his emotions got the better of him after a disappointing performance on the sport’s biggest stage.
“I let myself, my family, my sponsors, and the fans down with a moment of sheer stupidity,” Menzies wrote. “There is no excuse for what I did, and I fully accept the consequences of my actions. I am sincerely sorry to the individual involved and to everyone who was offended.”
The suspension effectively sidelines Menzies from all PDC-sanctioned tournaments until January 2027. This includes major ranking events, World Championship qualifiers, and the ProTour circuit, dealing a significant blow to his professional career and earnings potential.
Reaction within the darts community has been mixed. While many support the PDC’s firm stance on protecting the sport’s family-friendly image, some have expressed sympathy for Menzies, noting the intense pressure of the World Championship and suggesting the punishment is severe.
Prominent darts commentator and former player Wayne Mardle commented on the situation: “The PDC has to protect the integrity of the sport. What Cameron did was undeniably wrong, but a three-year ban is a career-ender for many. It’s a harsh lesson in controlling your emotions, no matter how bitter the defeat.”
The ban highlights the PDC’s ongoing efforts to maintain high standards of sportsmanship as darts enjoys unprecedented global popularity and television viewership. In recent years, the organization has taken action against players for various offences, including inappropriate comments and unsporting behaviour, though a three-year suspension is among the most severe handed down for a non-doping violation.
Menzies has the right to appeal the decision. His management has indicated they are reviewing the ruling and considering their options.
