Dutch · The Hague, Netherlands · Born 20 April 1967Dutch professional darts player, five-time World Champion who dominated both BDO and PDC circuits with smooth throwing style and clutch finishing.
Born in The Hague, Netherlands on 20 April 1967, Raymond van Barneveld worked as a postman before pursuing darts professionally. His early career was spent on the BDO circuit, where he developed the methodical style and mental fortitude that would define his playing career. Van Barneveld's rise coincided with the golden era of Dutch darts, as he became the country's first major international star in the sport. Van Barneveld's peak years came during his BDO tenure, where he captured four World Championships between 1998 and 2005. These victories established him as one of the premier players of his generation and the dominant force in Dutch darts. His success extended beyond the World Championship, with multiple major titles cementing his reputation as a consistent performer at the highest level. In 2007, he made the significant decision to switch to the breakaway Professional Darts Corporation, immediately validating the move by winning the PDC World Championship in his debut year. His defining moment came in the 2007 PDC World Championship final against Phil Taylor, widely regarded as the greatest match in the tournament's history. Van Barneveld defeated the legendary Taylor 7-6 in a seven-set thriller that showcased extraordinary quality and drama. This victory represented not only a personal pinnacle but also a symbolic changing of the guard in professional darts. The match elevated the sport's profile globally and demonstrated that Taylor's dominance could be challenged. Van Barneveld's significance extends beyond his trophy collection. He transformed darts from a niche interest into a mainstream spectacle in the Netherlands, generating unprecedented television audiences and inspiring a generation of Dutch players. His openness about mental health struggles, including depression, helped destigmatize these issues within professional sport. After initially retiring in 2020, he returned briefly in 2022 before finally stepping away from competitive play, leaving behind a legacy as both a champion and cultural ambassador for darts.
Five World Championship titles across BDO and PDC
His 2007 PDC World Championship final victory over Phil Taylor, won 7-6 in a deciding leg, is considered by most analysts the greatest darts match ever televised.
Did You Know?How They Played
Smooth, consistent throwing action with exceptional finishing under pressure
Lasting Impact
One of the greatest darts players ever, bridging BDO and PDC eras with multiple world titles and legendary rivalry with Phil Taylor
Career Honours
- BDO World Champion 4x (1998, 2000, 2003, 2005)
- PDC World Champion 2007
- Premier League Darts Champion
- World Grand Prix Champion
- Defeated Phil Taylor in the greatest World Championship final
- BDO World Championship 1998, 1999, 2003, 2005
- PDC World Championship 2007
- Premier League Darts 2012
- World Grand Prix 2012
- Las Vegas Desert Classic 2006
- International Darts League 2004
Dutch Athletes