Just stumbled across this recent image of former PDC tour card holder Gordon Mathers. Absolutely incredible to see the change in his body and to see him looking so healthy!
Gordon Mathers will make his return to the PDC World Darts Championships in December after winning the DPA Oceanic Masters last weekend. This tournament counts as a qualifying tournament for darters from "Down Under.
Australian darter Mathers has competed in the World Championship three times before, but the last time was at the 2022 edition. Then Mathers, who has since lost considerable weight, lost in the first round to Jaosn Heaver.
At the Oceanic Masters, Mathers won 2-0 in sets over Brian Corbett and Craig Caldwell in his first matches to secure a spot at the quarterfinals. At the last eight, he was too strong 3-1 in sets to New Zealand's Mark Cleaver.
Emerging talent Jaymie Hilton-Jones lost 3-1 in sets in the semifinals. In the final, Harley Kemp was defeated 3-1 in sets, making qualification for the World Darts Championship a reality.
"I knew I had to take my chances in the final and I did just that," said Mathers. "I am pleased to have won and am looking forward to the end of the year.
"I have been there before and know what it is all about. I am ready to go and play and am really excited by the prospect."
A total of three players travel to London from 'Down Under' for the World Darts Championship. Joe Comito crowned himself winner of the DPA ranking, while Ben Robb won the qualifying tournament for darters from New Zealand.
In addition, Damon Heta will also make his appearance at Alexandra Palace. The Australian has lived in the United Kingdom for several years and is among the top-10 players in the world rankings. Iconic Australian darter Simon Whitlock and New Zealand Tour Card holder Haupai Puha still have a slim chance to qualify through the Pro Tour, and may have an additional opportunity at the qualifying tournament for Tour Card holders on Monday, Nov. 25.
Quarterfinals
Harley Kemp 3-2 Kayden Milne
James Bailey 3-1 Josh Walters
Jaymie Hilton-Jones 3-0 Harrison Donegan
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Mark Cleaver
Semi-final
Harley Kemp 3-1 James Bailey
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Jaymie Hilton-Jones
Finale
Gordon Mathers 3-1 Harley Kemp
Just stumbled across this recent image of former PDC tour card holder Gordon Mathers. Absolutely incredible to see the change in his body and to see him looking so healthy!
𝗔 𝗗𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗨𝗧! It's a first Ally Pally victory for Jason Heaver who sets up a second round clash with Danny Noppert, defeating Gordon Mathers 3-1! #WHDarts