"He’s genuinely impressive... his parents are giving him every chance to succeed" - Kim Huybrechts names Lex Paeshuyse as the future of Belgian darts

Kim Huybrechts has been a mainstay on the PDC tour for many years and is widely regarded as one of Belgium’s most successful darts players. With darts enjoying a surge in popularity across the country in recent years, the spotlight is shifting toward the next generation.

In a recent episode of the podcast Darts Draait Door, Huybrechts was asked who he sees as Belgium’s most promising young talent.

Today’s darts stars are emerging younger than ever — just look at Luke Littler, who made history earlier this year by becoming the youngest world champion at just 17. But Belgium may have a future star of its own.

For Huybrechts, one name stands out: Lex Paeshuyse. The 13-year-old Belgian claimed the PDC Youth World Championship title last year (an under-18 competition) and also won the WDF World Masters in the youth category. “He played in a tournament where he beat Mario Vandenbogaerde — the world number 68 — in the final,” Huybrechts noted.

“I’ve heard a lot of positive things about him,” he continued. “I’ve played him a few times myself, and he’s genuinely impressive. In one final, I was 6-3 down and managed to come back to win 7-6 — but make no mistake, he throws really well.”

Huybrechts also highlighted the strong support Paeshuyse receives from his family. “His parents have cut back their working hours and started homeschooling him at the start of this year.”

Still, Huybrechts was cautious about making any bold predictions just yet. “He’s still very young,” he said. “At that age, so much can change — girls, parties, friends, growing up. It’s tough to say what lies ahead. If he ends up growing to two meters tall, for example, his entire throwing stance will be different. But he’s got a good head on his shoulders, and his parents are giving him every chance to succeed.”