Mike De Decker slams Ally Pally darts crowd after David Munyua loss | Other | Sport

Mike De Decker has torn into the fans at Alexandra Palace after his shock World Darts Championship exit to David Munyua. The 2024 World Grand Prix champion was the overwhelming favourite against the Kenyan, who is a full-time veterinarian in his homeland. 

Despite only taking up the sport after the coronavirus pandemic,Munyua, 30, came from two sets down to beat the 18th seed 3-2 in a pulsating clash at Ally Pally. De Decker missed numerous match darts to win 3-1, but Munyua roared back by taking the second set 3-2 before winning the fifth to book himself a place in the second round. After dancing his way down the oche, the Ally Pally crowd showed their support to Munuya, who became the first ever Kenyan to win at the Palace. De Decker was booed, jeered and mocked throughout the contest, while the crowd cheered every one of his African opponent’s victorious legs and high scores. 

When the match was over, the Belgian took to his Instagram page and uploaded a story, where he hit out at the crowd. He wrote: “Well done to David. 

“But the crowd wow…booing and whistling shouldn’t be something that’s normal or supported. First to complain when it happens to UK players in Europe, but then doing the exact same thing when the tournament is in the UK.” 

Meanwhile, Munyua could not stop smiling after his historic victory. In the next round, he will face one of dangerous Dutchman Kevin Doets or Englishman Matthew Dennant. After the match, while on stage speaking to Sky Sports, Munyua said: “It is amazing.

“I was not expecting it, I am happy about it. It is a very big moment for the sport itself, for Africa, for Kenya. I am happy I did my best, the outcome was quite good.”

The win means Munyua is guaranteed a minimum £25,000 and will be in line to win at least £35,000 if he is victorious in his next match. If he was to win the following game, his prize money would almost double to £60,000. 

However, he is not looking too far ahead. In his post-match press conference, Munyua said: “This was the most important game for me.

“Now I have time to relax, focus on my level of playing and prepare for whoever is next. The first game is always tough, the players also know it is always tough. 

“I’ve never been in such a venue before with the noise, the pressure. I think it might be easier for me in the second round than the first round.”