“I can win the World Championship. It’s as simple as that" - Justin Hood announces himself with star-making win over Danny Noppert in Ally Pally thriller

Justin Hood produced a performance at the PDC World Darts Championship 2026 that will be remembered for a long time to come. In a match of exceptionally high quality, the Englishman came out on top against Danny Noppert, one of the standout players of the past year.

With a three-figure average, immense scoring power and, above all, iron-clad composure in the decisive moments, Hood showed that he is not merely a newcomer, but a player who belongs on the biggest stage in world darts.

Afterwards, Hood appeared strikingly calm, almost nonchalant, about what he had just achieved.

“It was a good game,” he said. “I wouldn’t say I let him in. He was just amazing under pressure on the finishes. That’s Danny all over. He’s an amazing player and an amazing bloke, but I got over the line, so I’m over the moon.”

For Hood, this was only his second match ever on the World Championship stage, but there was little sign of nerves. Where many debutants visibly struggle with the occasion, he stayed cool even as the contest went down to the finest of margins. Asked how he managed to keep his composure, his answer perfectly summed up his mindset. “Being a bit thick helps,” he joked. “But it’s a game of darts. It doesn’t matter if you’re playing here or down the local pub. If I play well, I can win. If I don’t, I’ll still get chances. You’ve just got to take them, and tonight I did.”

That down-to-earth approach appears to be key to his success. Hood refuses to make the game bigger than it is, avoiding unnecessary pressure and focusing solely on his own performance and opportunities.

Hood also made it clear that he has no fear of reputations when discussing the opponents he has already beaten this season. “I’ve beaten Danny a couple of times this year on tour. I’ve beaten Gary, I’ve beaten Wedi. No one’s better than anyone up there. It’s all on the day.”

According to Hood, the gap at the top is far smaller than many believe. “We can all average 100. We can all average 90. I wouldn’t say he gave me a chance. I earned my stripes tonight, and it’s nice to prove to myself that I can do it on the big stage.”

That proof came not only in the result, but also in the numbers. With a 103 average, Hood once again showed that his best darts often emerge under the TV lights.

While some players remain cautious in their public statements, Hood does not shy away from ambition. Asked how far he can go if he maintains this level, his response was crystal clear. “I can win it. It’s as simple as that. If I average 103 every game, it’s going to be hard to beat me. I believe I can improve on that tonight, and hopefully that comes out next game.”

It is a statement that might sound bold to some, but anyone who watched his performance can understand where that confidence comes from. Hood does not merely believe in his game, he is convinced there is more to come.

He also describes himself as a better player on television than on the Pro Tour. “I’m a lot better than I’ve shown sometimes,” he explained. “This year on tour I’ve averaged about 92, but I’m a better player than that. I’m a better player on TV, and I think that’s shown in the last two games.”

Where others need time to adjust to tour life and major stages, Hood appears to thrive on the spotlight. “I love it,” he said. “The last two games have proved I’m a much better player on stage than I am off it. You haven’t got the crowd on the Pro Tour. They helped me massively tonight.”

During the match, Hood absorbed several heavy blows as his opponent repeatedly landed big finishes at crucial moments. Despite appearing outwardly animated at times, he insisted his inner belief never wavered. “Inside I was still positive. Sometimes you shake your head and let Danny think he’s getting to you, but he isn’t. No one gets to me. Until he hits the double to beat me, I’m still in the game.”

That mentality paid off in a deciding set many described as darts of the highest level. Whether it was his best scoring display, Hood was unconcerned. “I’ve no idea. I haven’t looked at the stats. I won. If the stats were brilliant, happy days. If not, I still won. That’s all that matters.”

Despite the significance of the win, Hood remains focused on the ultimate goal. “No. I dream of that world final, lifting that trophy. This is just part of the journey.”

That journey continues after Christmas, when he returns for round three. How he will spend the festive period remains undecided, but one thing seems certain: food will feature heavily. Laughing, Hood suggested he might stay nearby because of the quality of the local Chinese restaurants, joking that they would “be out of business in a week” with the amount he plans to eat.