Former darts world champion wins first title in over a year days after announcing split from wife

ROB CROSS claimed his first title since announcing his separation from wife Georgia after producing a superb display to win Players Championship 22.

The former world champion defeated Dutch star Maik Kuivenhoven 8-5 in Wednesday’s final in Wigan, securing his first Players Championship crown since February 2025.

The victory ended a frustrating run of 54 ProTour events without silverware and marked the 11th Players Championship title of Cross’ career. The triumph also earned him a £15,000 winner’s cheque.

It comes just a week after Cross revealed on social media that he and Georgia had decided to go their separate ways.

In a heartfelt statement, the 35-year-old said: “After a challenging few years, Georgia and I have decided to separate.”

Speaking after his title-winning run, Cross admitted he has faced a difficult period away from the oche.

“I’ve had my trials and tribulations,” he said. “I’ve got a lot going on at the minute.

“Even through that, I felt I was playing some decent darts.

“Three months ago, I was probably out of the World Matchplay picture. I managed to give myself a kick up the backside and turn things around.

“I still have great support behind me. Georgia and the kids, we all still get on. I still get to have my family time, which I’m grateful for.

“She’s a great woman and a fantastic mother.”

Cross and Georgia had been together since 2008 and share four children. The couple married in 2011 after first meeting at the pet shop where Georgia worked.

Reflecting on the early days of their relationship in a previous interview, Georgia said: “We just clicked and it was obvious very quickly how sweet and caring he was.

“The first time we met up, he bought us a bag of chips to share and we just sat and talked for a couple of hours while eating them.

“He was already into darts and I soon realised just how obsessed he was.”

Cross’ latest success represents a timely return to form as he looks to build momentum heading into the sport’s biggest summer events.