“Let’s hope that’s the end of it and it’s nothing serious” – Kim Huybrechts alarmed by Cameron Menzies’ health scare

The alarming scenes involving Cameron Menzies during the World Matchplay left a deep impression on the darts world. The Scot had to abandon his match against Ross Smith on Wednesday evening after he suddenly felt unwell and had to leave the stage. Kim Huybrechts also watched the events with dismay and called it an exceptional situation.

Menzies had started his second-round tie well and led 2-1 when he visibly suffered from dizziness. The 37-year-old Scot staggered on stage and nearly buckled. Accompanied by a scorer and opponent Ross Smith, he left the oche, after which the match was first suspended and later abandoned. Smith therefore advanced to the quarterfinals without further play.

Huybrechts watched the footage with great concern. According to the Belgian, the incident caused a lot of unrest among players and fans. “I think a lot of people were really shocked,” he told Sportnieuws.nl. “I can’t immediately recall this ever happening before.”

Although he could remember a similar medical incident from the past, he noted an important difference. “In the past something happened with Ted Hankey as well, but actually having to step off the stage didn’t happen. It’s very unfortunate for Cameron.”

Not long after, the PDC issued an initial medical update. It stated that Menzies had been treated by medical staff for severely elevated blood pressure and had since returned to his accommodation.

That news offered Huybrechts some reassurance. “Fortunately I read that everything is okay, so it’s not super serious.”

Even so, the Belgian believes such an event can have a major impact on a player. Huybrechts thinks Menzies will not forget this experience anytime soon. “It’s obviously something that should concern you for the rest of your life.”

He stressed that anyone can feel unwell briefly, but hopes this remains a one-off for the Scot. “We all feel unwell from time to time. Let’s hope this is it and that it’s nothing serious. But yes, it is striking.”

Later in the evening, Menzies himself let it be known via his social media that he was doing well under the circumstances. “Thanks to everyone who reached out and sent messages. I’m doing fine.”