Stephen Bunting joins list of PDC major winners with stunning Masters success
PDC
Stephen Bunting has added his name to the elite list of PDC major title winners after a stunning 11-7 victory over Michael van Gerwen in the final of the 2024 Masters
After both players raced through their respective semi-finals with ease, confidence was understandably flowing in both. As such, there were little if any chances handed out in an opening session that went with the throw, 3-2 to Bunting.
After the break, Bunting getting refused to let up, powering in big scores and ruthlessly taking out the checkout when he had the opportunity. As the Englishman upped his average to 98.47, and thanks to a couple of bullseye finishes, he took the second session 3-2 also to lead 6-4 as they headed off stage.
The game was far from over however, and van Gerwen proved he was still fighting with a brilliant double-double 92 to open the third session, followed by a hold of throw to level the tie at 6-6. Despite the van Gerwen fightback, Bunting held firm to keep his nose infront at the ad break, 8-7.
Punishing some missed van Gerwen darts at in the first leg back, Bunting moved 9-7 clear and after seven perfect darts in the following leg, 'The Bullet' moved just one from the win. Adding another maximum in the next leg, Bunting was accelerating towards victory and with his first match dart it was secured.
Great win for Bunting, a major win for him though lets not get carried away as its not a “Major”, its an invitational to the Worlds top 24 players, the prize money does not count towards the rankings. Maybe the PDC would like it to be considered in the same vein as Snookers Masters which is a Triple Crown event, but that has a long history. To make the Masters a ranking event include all 128 players, start the first round with the bottom 32 and the winners play the next 16 in the rankings until you end up with your champion. This way those lower ranked players could earn some money if there was say £1000 per round then increase the money per round from the last 32 remaining.
Bunting has, however, as a result qualified for the Grand Slam which is a ranking event. It's not a Major but I do think it should be a ranking event. I agree with Chris Mason that it should be held along the lines of the old BDO Masters - short set format, 32 players, worlds top 24 plus 8 from a tour card holders event.
Congratulations - Mr Bunting... that has topped my weekend off superbly. It is always nice to see Mr Arrogant lose.
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