World Matchplay Darts: Cameron Menzies withdraws after becoming unwell on stage during second-round match against Ross Smith

Cameron Menzies' match against Ross Smith at the World Matchplay Darts was abandoned after the Scot became dizzy on stage and later fainted at the Winter Gardens on Wednesday night.

Menzies was 2-1 up in the second-round match when he doubled over in discomfort and appeared to become unsteady on his feet, with Smith and the match officials coming to his aid.

The 37-year-old received medical attention after being taken from the stage, with the PDC later confirming Menzies had experienced high blood pressure. After medical checks, Menzies was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation.

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Menzies took to social media on Wednesday night, reassuring fans over his condition and thanking those who had wished him well.

"Thanks to everyone who's checked in and sent messages. I'm okay," he wrote on Facebook.

He later added: "Unfortunately, I wasn't well enough to continue the match. It's obviously not how I wanted my World Matchplay to end, especially after playing some of the best darts of my career over the last few weeks.

"I'm grateful to the medical team for looking after me, to Ross for checking on me, and to everyone at the Winter Gardens for their support.

"A big good luck to Ross for the rest of the tournament. I wish him all the best. Hopefully I'll be back doing what I love very soon. Thanks again for all your support, it really does mean a lot."

Menzies' enforced withdrawal saw the match officially abandoned, with Smith progressing to the quarter-finals where he will face Gerwyn Price.

A statement from the PDC said: "Cameron Menzies was taken ill during his round two match against Ross Smith at the Betfred World Matchplay on Wednesday evening.

"Cameron experienced high blood pressure, which caused him to feel dizzy and subsequently faint.

"Following an assessment by the on-site medical team, Cameron was deemed well enough to return to his accommodation.

"We wish Cameron all the best and look forward to seeing him back in action soon."

Following a short break, Gian van Veen's match against Wessel Nijman commenced.

"I echo the thoughts of everybody; right now, it's all about Cameron Menzies," Sky Sports' Glen Durrant said.

"He's in tip-top form at the moment. It's a real tough one to take."

Menzies had advanced to the second round of the World Matchplay Darts after beating 2024 champion Luke Humphries 10-7, a victory he called "the biggest moment of my darts career."

The Scot produced a Big Fish checkout to beat the world No 2, and afterwards, was left lost for words.

"I don't know how to explain that [victory]. I did believe in my heart that I could maybe cause an upset but I would have to play it out of my skin," Menzies said.

"I wouldn't say I played it out of my skin, but I played really well. I did say before the game started, to beat Luke, I need to take every chance that he gives me.

"It's not like Luke to give a lot of chances away, but obviously I'm going to take it. A lot went in. I was happy. I stole a few legs to win, but it's made the best moment of my darts career."

Who will win this year's World Matchplay Darts? Luke Littler is defending the title and you can watch all the action on Sky Sports. Stream darts and more top sport with NOW.