It was announced on Monday that Shaun Greatbatch passed away on Sunday afternoon. He was only 52 years old.
Greatbatch became famous in 2002 when he became the first darts player to throw a nine-darter live on TV during the Dutch Open in 2002.
Another highlight in his career was a semi-final at Lakeside in 2006. During that tournament he lost in the last four to the eventual winner Jelle Klaasen.
Greatbatch played his last World Championship in 2009, after he was diagnosed with cancer in 2008. After his defeat at the 2009 World Championships, the other participants formed a guard of honour as Greatbatch left the stage.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of Shaun Greatbatch, aged 52. Lakeside semi-finalist in 2006, Greatbatch was nicknamed 'Nine Dart Man' after becoming the first player to hit a nine-darter live on TV at the 2002 Dutch Open. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
