Richie Burnett

Welsh professional darts player who became BDO World Champion in 1995, known for his explosive throwing style and passionate celebrations on stage.

Born in Cwmfelinfach, near Caerphilly, Wales on 21 April 1967, Richard Simon Burnett emerged from humble beginnings to become one of Wales's most celebrated darts players. Growing up in a working-class mining community, he developed his throwing skills in local pubs before progressing through Welsh county darts competitions in the 1980s. Burnett's professional career gained momentum in the early 1990s when he established himself as a consistent performer on the British Darts Organisation circuit. His breakthrough came at the 1995 BDO World Championship at Lakeside, where he delivered one of the tournament's most memorable performances. After trailing Raymond van Barneveld in the final, Burnett mounted a remarkable comeback, celebrating his victory with an emotional display that included tears and passionate gestures that resonated with viewers worldwide. The triumph made him the first Welsh player to win the world title since Leighton Rees in 1978. Following his world championship success, Burnett remained competitive at the highest level throughout the mid-1990s, reaching multiple major semi-finals and maintaining his status among the sport's elite players. However, his career was significantly affected by personal struggles and health issues that resulted in extended periods away from competitive darts. Despite these setbacks, he demonstrated remarkable resilience by returning to high-level competition on several occasions, earning respect for his determination to overcome adversity. Burnett's legacy extends beyond his world championship victory. His passionate playing style and emotional connection with audiences helped elevate darts' entertainment value during a crucial period in the sport's development. He inspired a generation of Welsh players and remained an ambassador for darts in Wales throughout his career. His 1995 world championship triumph stands as a defining moment in Welsh sporting history, while his ability to persevere through personal difficulties established him as a symbol of resilience within the darting community.

Explosive, passionate thrower known for his animated celebrations and crowd interaction

One of the most charismatic players of the 1990s who brought entertainment and passion to professional darts

• BDO World Champion 1995
• Wales international
• Grand Prix of Darts finalist