Cameron Menzies issues update after harrowing medical emergency on stage during World Matchplay sees sudden withdrawal
PDCThursday, 23 July 2026 at 11:50
Cameron Menzies gave everyone at home, in the arena, and on stage at the Winter Gardens quite a scare on Wednesday evening during his second-round match at the World Matchplay. After three legs, the Scot suddenly felt unwell and nearly collapsed on stage. With help from his opponent Ross Smith and one of the callers, he was guided off the stage for medical attention. ‘Cammy’ has since spoken out himself.
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The match was only three legs old when it all went wrong. Menzies was about to start the fourth leg when he stepped back several times before telling the referee he wasn’t feeling well. He then staggered off the stage, after which the match was understandably called off for good. As a result, Smith advanced automatically to the quarterfinals at the World Matchplay.
It later emerged that the 37-year-old Scot had severe chest pain, was very dizzy, and is said to have fainted backstage. After a period of uncertainty, the PDC issued an official statement. It read:
“Cameron Menzies was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening. Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint.
Ross Smith arrives on stage at the World Matchplay.
“Following an assessment by the on-site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation. We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon.”
Menzies speaks out and thanks fans
Menzies later shared an update himself on social media. He said he was doing well and wanted to thank his fans. “Thanks to everyone who’s checked in and sent messages. I’m okay,” he wrote on Facebook.
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His opponent Ross Smith also responded to the distressing incident with a heartfelt message. "So glad my good friend @CameronMenzies is ok," he wrote on social media.
"Health comes before anything. You will come back stronger than ever love ya mate."
Unfortunately for Menzies, this medical emergency meant an abrupt end to what had been a fine tournament so far. In the first round, ‘Cammy’ delivered the tournament’s biggest upset by playing superbly to defeat the current world number two, Luke Humphries. Thanks in part to a spectacular 170 checkout in the deciding leg, he triumphed 10-7 over the former world champion.
Mark Webster chimed at the time on Sky Sports that Smith's initial thoughts would be wellbeing over his own personal return to the oche. "Smith was obviously concerned," he said. "He'll be offering his support. While the medics are seeing to Cameron, he's got to stay on the practice board. But ultimately it's just about hoping that Cameron is okay at the minute."
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Sadly, there was no fitting follow-up. Health comes first, however, and fortunately for Menzies the situation appears less serious than feared. From everyone at DartsNews.com, we are pleased to hear the Scot is doing relatively well. And let’s hope to see him back on stage soon.
Samuel GillChief Content Officer
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of DartsNews.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy across professional darts coverage. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces, playing a central role in the development and daily operation of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has extensive experience in darts media and has been closely involved in coverage of the professional darts circuit for several years. Within the UK darts community, he is a recognised figure known for his consistent editorial output and ongoing reporting on major tournaments and developments across the PDC calendar.
In his current role, Samuel works closely with editors and writers to ensure content meets clear journalistic standards, with a focus on source verification, editorial consistency, and timely updates when new, confirmed information becomes available.
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