Daryl Gurney clashes with Kirk Bevins after Grand Slam defeat as cameras capture tense exchange
Daryl Gurney’s 2025 Grand Slam of Darts hopes ended in controversy on Sunday night after the Northern Irishman became involved in a heated confrontation with referee Kirk Bevins moments after his 5–3 defeat to Karel Sedlacek.
The two-time major champion needed a win to stay in the hunt for qualification, but a costly performance on the doubles left him relying on other results. Sedlacek kept his composure under pressure and sealed a deserved 5–3 victory, leaving Gurney’s hopes hanging on Luke Littler’s later match against Connor Scutt. When Littler also won 5–3, the door slammed shut on Gurney’s chances.
Cameras capture tense moment at the oche
What followed quickly became the talking point of the night. Instead of heading backstage after removing his darts, Gurney walked directly towards Bevins. TV cameras picked up the pair in a visibly intense exchange, with eyewitnesses describing Gurney as clearly agitated. Although there was no physical altercation, the tone and body language were enough to draw immediate attention from fans and media.
Bevins kept his cool and ended the conversation swiftly, while Gurney departed the stage shaking his head and refusing all interviews.
Gurney has one group game left to play, but no chance of progression
PDC could review the incident
According to The Sun, the PDC had not been informed of the flashpoint on Sunday evening, but a review could still follow. The organisation enforces strict rules on player conduct and respect for officials, and previous players have been fined for similar behaviour. A warning or financial penalty cannot be ruled out if the footage is deemed unacceptable.
Gurney’s exit comes in a year that has delivered both progress and frustration. While he hasn’t consistently hit the heights of his peak, he did lift the World Cup of Darts for Northern Ireland alongside Josh Rock in June, a major highlight that showcased flashes of his best game. Even so, his individual results have remained up and down, and the Grand Slam was another chance to build momentum heading into the winter.
Instead, missed doubles in key moments allowed Sedlacek to take control, and the post-match confrontation ended up dominating the conversation around his performance.
As fans debate whether the outburst was an understandable release of pressure or a step too far, all eyes now turn to the PDC. Any decision on disciplinary action is expected in the coming days.
