Key Highlights
- Paul Lim, 71, becomes the oldest player ever to win a match at the PDC World Championship.
- Limited to his first-round victory over Jeffrey de Graaf in the tournament’s opening day.
- Lim reflects on his passion for darts and its potential to inspire future generations.
- Upcoming meeting with world number two Luke Humphries, who praised Lim’s impact on his career.
The Ageless Legend: Paul Lim at 71 Wins PDC World Championship First Round
At the tender age of 71, Paul Lim is making waves in the darts world. His first-round victory over Sweden’s Jeffrey de Graaf has not only made him the oldest player ever to win a match at the PDC World Championship but also redefined what it means to be a competitive professional athlete beyond traditional retirement ages.
A Career Spanning Decades
The Singaporean darts legend first played in a World Championship back in 1982 and has since made history multiple times. His latest achievement comes almost three decades after his famous nine-dart finish at the 1990 BDO World Championship, where he hit an incredible nine-dart finish against Jack McKenna, earning him £52,000 – a record that still stands in its own right.
Passion and Perseverance
In an interview with BBC Sport, Lim expressed his unwavering passion for the sport. “My love for darts is what drives me,” he said. “It’s not about being strong; it’s about staying healthy and passionate.” This philosophy has kept him competitive against younger players, showing that in darts, age is just a number.
Reflecting on his journey, Lim added, “I’ve never had any doubt I would still be playing at this age. The sport demands passion, not physical strength.” His dedication and consistency have made him an inspiration to many, proving that it’s possible to excel in one’s chosen field well into the golden years.
Preparation and Legacy
Lim has been preparing rigorously for his upcoming second-round match against world number two Luke Humphries. When asked about the expectations, Lim said, “Right now, all I want is to show up and play good. If I win, so be it; if I lose, so be it.” His approach shows a level of humility that is both refreshing and humbling.
Liam’s performance against Humphries in 2021 is still remembered by many as a turning point in his career, helping him to lose about four stones (around 5.4 kg) and go on to win a major title shortly after.
The Englishman praised Lim’s impact, saying, “Three months later, I was in a major final. It helped my career.” This mutual respect highlights the importance of such encounters in shaping not just individual careers but also the sport as a whole.
A Legacy of Love and Inspiration
As Lim steps up to face Humphries, his legacy is clear – he has shown that age should never be an excuse for stopping one’s pursuit of excellence. “I want to be remembered as someone who loved darts and spent a lifetime with it,” he said. “I hope I can inspire the next generation to love the sport as much as I do.” Lim’s continued participation in the tournament is a testament to his enduring passion, proving that age is no barrier when one has the right mindset.
With the upcoming matches, Paul Lim’s story continues to unfold, reminding us all of the true spirit and resilience found within darts. His journey serves as an inspiration for both current players and aspiring athletes everywhere.
