World Darts Championship Star Battles Injury After Assault by Football Hooligans
Belgian darts player Kim Huybrechts is gearing up for his appearance in the World Darts Championship despite facing significant challenges. The world ranked No. 53 has overcome a serious injury following an attack by football hooligans. This incident occurred after a cup final match in May 2024, where Huybrechts supported his team, Royal Antwerp.
Incident Details
Following a 1-0 defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise at the King Baudouin Stadium, Huybrechts and a friend were set upon by rival fans in Brussels. This assault left Huybrechts with a double fracture in his right shoulder, the arm he uses for throwing darts.
Emergency Response
- Huybrechts was rushed to the hospital after the attack.
- His injuries included a serious fracture that raised concerns about his future in darts.
- His wife, Dana Verhaegen, provided updates on social media, detailing the attack.
Recovery and Return to Darts
Despite fears that he might miss the World Cup of Darts in June 2024, Huybrechts made a strong recovery. He reached the semi-finals of the tournament alongside teammate Dimitri Van den Bergh.
Current Championship Bid
Kim Huybrechts is set to compete against Arno Merk in the first round of the World Darts Championship. The event takes place at the iconic Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally). He hopes to achieve his best result in the tournament, aiming to progress past the quarter-finals.
Looking Ahead
As Huybrechts steps onto the stage this week, fans will be watching closely. His determination to return to form after such a traumatic experience showcases his resilience as an athlete. The crowd at Ally Pally is expected to rally behind him, eager to see his performance in the championship.
