Barry Hearn offers tribute to "legend" Raymond van Barneveld

The iconic five-time world champion confirmed that he would retire after the 2020 PDC World Championship. Plenty have already voiced their appreciation for Van Barneveld's contribution to the sport. Hearn, whose PDC vision was boosted hugely by the Dutchman's switch to the code in 2006, recognised his importance in the annals of darting history.
"Barney's a huge player - and has been a huge player for many generations," Hearn said.
"I suppose all good things come to an end. Barney's decided that this is his last lap of honour. And we should give him plenty of respect for his contribution to our wonderful sport."
Van Barneveld was a box office smash from the start of his PDC career. The former Den Haag postman won the PDC World Championship at the first attempt in 2007. It was a high point in a long and thrilling rivalry with Phil Taylor. With a trophy-laden career set to end, Barney's spot among the darting deities looks set in stone.
"The man's a legend and we owe him a lot," Hearn said.
"We'll miss him. Luckily there's a whole horde of new personalities waiting to take his place.
"But we owe Barney thanks. Respect to the man, respect to his game. Respect to his contribution to the world of professional darts.
"We won't forget the debt we owe Barney. Raymond van Barneveld continues to be a crowd favourite, and I think he'll really enjoy his lap of honour."
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