As we commented in the opening piece of DW’s ‘2020’s Decadia’ the year began with a new and very popular World champion. This is not an unusual start to tungsten new year. However, the impact a Fallon Sherrock winning matches at the same World Championship was indeed revolutionary and set darts’ 2020s off on their unprecedented path. Here’s how Chris Murphy covered the aftermath:
Superstar Fallon Sherrock became an overnight sensation as her historic Wiliam Hill World Championship victory catapulted her into the media spotlight. After becoming the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship, Sherrock topped the news agenda in the United Kingdom and made headlines worldwide.
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The morning after her ground breaking triumph over Ted Evetts began with a trip to the “Good Morning Britain” studios, where she also defeated Piers Morgan in a three-dart challenge.
The 25-year-old talent then visited the studios of most major TV and radio stations in the UK as well as doing interviews for international press as the story captured the interest of the world.
“It’s been a crazy day,” said Sherrock, reflecting on a whirlwind 24 hours. “I knew I had achieved something special but I never expected it to be this big – it’s started to sink in that I’ve done something important for women’s sport.
“I’ve really enjoyed the day but it has been a surreal experience. I just hope it gives other female darts players the confidence and belief to go for it a bit more and inspires girls to pick up the game.”
The winning moment of Sherrock’s 3-2 success has spread rapidly across social media platforms and is the PDC’s most widely shared post ever, with combined views of over five million in less than 24 hours.
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Fallon’s own personal Twitter account also saw a surge in followers, likes and retweets – and was even verified, much to her delight.
“I can’t believe I got a blue tick,” added Sherrock, who is auctioning the match board to raise money for the National Autistic Society.
“When my manager told me I had been verified I couldn’t believe it. That’s when you know you’ve made it.”
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Words: Chris Murphy
Originally published in DartsWorld 566 (February 2020)
Images: Darts World Ltd
