Bunting Clinches Maiden World Series Crown with 8-4 Win Over Price

Stephen Bunting claimed his first World Series of Darts title with an 8-4 victory over Gerwyn Price at the Bahrain Darts Masters, marking a career milestone for the Englishman.

Stephen Bunting secured his maiden World Series of Darts title with a convincing 8-4 victory over Gerwyn Price at the Bahrain Darts Masters on Friday. The 39-year-old Englishman dominated the match from the outset, setting the tone with a strong performance at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Bunting made an excellent start, claiming the opening leg against Price despite the Welshman's valiant attempt to take out 170, which ultimately proved unsuccessful after nine darts. Maintaining his composure and control, Bunting continued to build on his lead, achieving further breaks on three occasions. Although Price managed to re-break twice, Bunting's overall dominance ensured he remained in the ascendancy throughout the match.

Stephen Bunting's triumph at the Bahrain Darts Masters marked a significant milestone in his career, as he claimed his first World Series title and ended an 11-year wait for a World Series event victory. Bunting's impressive run to the final included a quarter-final win over Chris Dobey, where he achieved a remarkable 111.33 average, setting a tournament record that was later broken by Gerwyn Price.

Bunting's dominant performance against Dobey was a testament to his exceptional form, and he carried this momentum into the final against Price. Prior to the final, Bunting had already eliminated Luke Humphries, demonstrating his prowess on the oche. After securing the title, Bunting expressed his gratitude to the crowd, stating, “It is even more satisfying because what an absolutely lovely trophy this is... I can't produce my best darts without this wonderful crowd week in, week out.”

An emotional Bunting struggled to find words to describe his achievement, but highlighted the significance of his current form and ranking. “I am lost for words. I am playing the best I have ever played, I am more consistent... Being world number five is an incredible feeling, and it has made me very strong, to be honest,” he said. Bunting's victory marked a memorable moment in his career, and he will undoubtedly cherish the experience of lifting the Bahrain Darts Masters trophy.

Stephen Bunting beats Gerwyn Price 8-4 to be crowned the Bahrain Darts Masters champion 🏆 pic.twitter.com/FyB4ZAKXxI

— Sky Sports Darts (@SkySportsDarts) January 17, 2025

In a surprising turn of events, Paolo Nebrida from the Philippines caused an upset by defeating former world champion Rob Cross in the first round. Nebrida's 6-3 victory was a testament to his skills, while Cross struggled with his doubles, converting only 13.6% and averaging 86.3. Although Nebrida's run eventually came to an end in the quarter-finals against Peter Wright, his impressive win over Cross will be remembered as one of the tournament's biggest surprises.