In a debut performance that will be recounted from London to Limuru, Kenyan veterinarian David Munyua has sensationally carved his name into darts history. The 30-year-old debutant orchestrated a breathtaking comeback to defeat Belgium's Mike De Decker, a top-18 ranked player, in a 3-2 thriller at the PDC World Darts Championship on Thursday.

This is more than a simple sports victory; it is the first time a Kenyan has ever won a match at the iconic Alexandra Palace, the sport's most prestigious venue. The win guarantees Munyua a minimum payout of £25,000 (approx. KES 4.3 million), a life-changing sum that puts into perspective the scale of his achievement for a sport still budding professionally in Kenya.

From Murang'a to the World Stage

Munyua's journey is a testament to sheer grit. A full-time veterinarian from Kabati town in Murang'a County, he only began playing darts three years ago. His qualification for the tournament, secured through the African Darts Group Championship, was itself a major milestone. He had never travelled outside of Africa before this championship and had to rely on sponsorship to fund his journey from Nairobi to London.

The odds were heavily stacked against the unranked Kenyan. Facing 'The Real Deal' Mike De Decker, a formidable figure in the sport, Munyua quickly fell two sets behind, appearing destined for an early exit. But in a display of incredible resilience, he survived three match darts from his opponent before levelling the score and forcing a deciding set, ultimately sealing what commentators have labelled one of the biggest upsets in the competition's history.

A Nation Rallies in Pride

The historic win has ignited a wave of national pride, with leaders and citizens celebrating the achievement. President William Ruto lauded the performance, noting Munyua had "delivered one of the most memorable moments in the tournament's history." The victory has thrust the sport into the national limelight, a significant boost for its growth in Kenya and across Africa.

• Player: David Munyua, 30, a veterinarian from Murang'a County.
• Tournament: 2026 Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Darts Championship.
• Result: Defeated world number 18 Mike De Decker of Belgium 3-2 in the first round.
• Significance: First Kenyan to ever compete and win a match at the championship.
• Next Match: Faces Kevin Doets of the Netherlands in the second round.

Speaking after the match, an emotional Munyua struggled to contain his emotion. “This is a really big moment for the sport itself and for Africa,” he announced. “Everyone back in my country is going crazy about it. It is a special feeling for me and players back in my country.” His journey continues, but David Munyua has already hit the bullseye for Kenya.