Raymond van Barneveld may have received one of the more favourable draws for the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship, but the Dutch legend has admitted there’s still a significant challenge standing between him and a deep run at Ally Pally.
While many fans were quick to point out that Barney avoided several of the sport’s biggest hitters in the early rounds, the five-time world champion believes his path is far from straightforward.
A ‘Good Draw’… On Paper
Following the announcement of the tournament bracket, analysts suggested that van Barneveld had been handed an opportunity to build momentum. The early matchups appear manageable, and his side of the draw avoids the likes of Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen and Luke Humphries until later stages.
But Barney isn’t getting carried away.
“It looks good when you see the names, but the World Championship doesn’t work like that,” he warned. “Everyone comes here playing their best game. There are no easy matches.”
The Major Obstacle: Consistency
The biggest threat, according to van Barneveld, is not his potential opponents — but himself.
The 57-year-old has struggled with consistency throughout the season, producing flashes of vintage brilliance but unable to sustain it across long-format matches. He admitted that unless he finds his rhythm quickly, even a favourable draw could become a trap.
“My biggest challenge is keeping my focus and performing from start to finish,” he said. “If I play like I know I can, I can beat anyone. But if I dip, it becomes difficult no matter who I face.”
Pressure of the Biggest Stage
Barney also noted that the World Championship carries a unique kind of pressure, regardless of form or opponent.
“You can play unbelievable darts all season and then come to Ally Pally and it feels completely different,” he explained. “The atmosphere, the expectations — it affects everyone.”
The Dutchman is no stranger to the emotional highs and lows of the tournament, having experienced both triumph and heartbreak on its famous stage.
Fans Still Believe
Despite his caution, supporters remain optimistic. Van Barneveld has shown this year that when he finds his groove, he can still challenge the top names in the sport. His experience, composure, and tactical intelligence give him a fighting chance against any opponent.
And with the draw falling kindly — at least on paper — many believe the stage is set for one more classic Barney run.
A Final Charge?
As he prepares for what could be one of the last World Championships of his storied career, van Barneveld knows that time is not on his side. But that hasn’t dampened his determination.
“I still believe I can do something special,” he said. “But it starts with me. I’m the one who has to make it happen.”
Whether his biggest obstacle becomes his downfall or the fire that fuels a memorable Ally Pally run remains to be seen.
