In the build-up to the World Grand Prix clash between Raymond van Barneveld and Gary Anderson, fans were eagerly anticipating a thrilling encounter — and the two veterans certainly delivered. However, after the match, one particular moment sparked considerable debate among darts supporters, as seen in the widely shared footage.
The discussion centers on who was at fault in the post-match exchange. Some believe Gary Anderson acted disrespectfully by turning his back on Van Barneveld too soon, shaking hands with the officials, and walking past the Dutchman on his way to his table. Others argue it was Van Barneveld who failed to approach the Scotsman to congratulate him after the winning dart.
ANDERSON WINS THE DECIDER!
Gary Anderson is through to Round Two, as The Flying Scotsman beats Raymond van Barneveld in a last-leg decider!
📺 https://t.co/cN6xY3oHDW#WGPDarts | R1 pic.twitter.com/vpDXugUOmV
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 6, 2025
Regardless of who was to blame, the match did not end in the sportsmanlike manner fans have come to expect from two of darts’ biggest names. Still, both players — long-standing icons of the sport — showed they can still compete at the highest level and clearly enjoyed being back on the big stage.
In the end, it was Gary Anderson who came out on top, setting up a next-round meeting with Joe Cullen. Another Dutchman, Danny Noppert, also progressed after defeating Jermaine Wattimena 2–1. There will be at least one more Dutch player in the next round, as Michael van Gerwen and Dirk van Duijvenbode face each other in an all-Dutch showdown.
Wessel Nijman was unable to join them, falling 2–1 to Rob Cross on Monday evening. One more Dutchman remains in contention — Gian van Veen, who faces the formidable Luke Littler in his bid to reach the last 16.
Belgium’s Mike De Decker is also still in the tournament and has been drawn against Peter Wright.
The World Grand Prix continues on Tuesday evening, with the remaining first-round matches set to be played.