Ryan Meikle Stands Firm as Argentine Dream Meets Ally Pally Reality
Right now, there’s a fascinating darts story unfolding at Alexandra Palace, and at the centre of it is Ryan Meikle, quietly doing what he’s always done best—letting his darts do the talking while the spotlight shines elsewhere. The build-up was full of romance and big dreams, especially with Argentina’s Jesus Salate arriving at Ally Pally hoping to become the Maradona or Messi of the darts world. But once the match began, it was Meikle who reminded everyone how ruthless this stage can be.
Salate was making history as the first Argentine to appear at the PDC World Darts Championship, and that alone brought a lot of emotion into the arena. His walk-on music, inspired by Diego Maradona, and his talk of national pride added to the theatre. It was all very colourful, very passionate, and very Ally Pally. However, when the darts started flying, control of the game was firmly taken by Meikle.
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From the opening legs, the contest was dictated by calm and composure. Meikle barely allowed his opponent to settle, and the pressure was applied relentlessly. Just one leg was conceded, and the doubles were cleaned up with impressive efficiency. It was the kind of performance that might not grab headlines, but it wins matches at the World Championship, and that’s what matters.
Afterwards, it was made clear that this victory meant more than just progression. The disappointment of recent tournaments, especially a tough outing in Minehead, was still fresh, but it was also clear that lessons had been learned. That experience was described as a bump in the road, not a setback, and the response on the biggest stage in darts backed that up.
What makes Meikle’s story even more relatable is the balance he’s still maintaining away from the oche. He continues to work part-time as a barber, even during the busy Christmas period, and that context makes the £25,000 prize money already secured feel massive. With a mortgage, a young family, and real-life responsibilities, every win carries extra weight.
Now, for once, the draw appears to have opened up. In previous years, Meikle’s World Championship runs were halted by giants of the game like Luke Littler, Peter Wright, and Raymond van Barneveld. This time, the opportunity feels different, and it’s being approached with quiet belief rather than loud promises.
There’s no talk of becoming a Messi or a Maradona. Instead, there’s a simple ambition driving Ryan Meikle forward—to finally still be standing at Ally Pally after Christmas. And after a performance like this, that long-held goal suddenly feels closer than ever.
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