Fallon Sherrock’s partner Cameron Menzies heartbreakingly breaks down in tears during first round clash at Alexandra Palace – as Scot suffers shock defeat to world No 130 Leonard Gates

Cameron Menzies heartbreakingly broke down in tears during his first round match at the World Championships as he suffered a shock defeat.

Menzies, the partner of darts star and pioneer Fallon Sherrock, fell 3-1 to world number 130 Leonard Gates, despite being 91 places higher.

The Scot endured a difficult evening at Alexandra Palace, completing just five of 32 checkouts, with his highest score being a 72.

Towards the end of the decisive fourth stage, as Menzies neared defeat, the 35-year-old began to break down and could barely hold back tears.

The boisterous crowd began to rally behind his opponent and Menzies was even seen crying as he stepped up to throw before looking distraught at the end of the match.

After his impressive victory, American star Gates spoke about what happened on stage.

The Scot suffered a shock defeat to world number 130 Leonard Gates despite being ranked 39th

Menzies looked distraught towards the end of the match as he walked towards the American

“I was definitely aware of (his emotions),” he said. “But at the same time, I want my opponent to play his best against me, to see if I can play my best against him.

‘I told him to use the energy of the crowd, to keep coming and to keep playing as best as he can to make the PDC grow.’

Gates is known for his showmanship on the track and showed it off during his walk-on.

Meanwhile, Menzies had to endure a more subdued entrance and regularly had to deal with the wrath of the crowd.

The 35-year-old was mocked with anti-Scottish chants throughout the match – even as he cut the score to 1-1 – while he was also jeered as he struggled to post big scores, also missing 20 darts in the double. .

He also looked sweaty and nervous on stage as he struggled heartbreakingly with the pressure of the encounter.

However, Gates’ antics seemingly endeared him to the crowd, with chants of ‘USA’ echoing around Alexandra Palace.

He hugged Menzies after the match before showing off more dance moves for the crowd as he made sure he made the most of his victory.

Nevertheless, several fans were quick to empathize with Menzies after the match as they took to social media to express their support.

“Okay, I’m all for drama and suspense, but this is beyond hard to watch. The public needs to come from Menzies’ back,” said one.

Another said: ‘Cameron Menzies has an emotional breakdown. This has become a tough watch.”

Another fan chimed in, saying: ‘It’s hard to see Cameron Menzies here. I obviously have a lot of talent, but I just can’t keep it together.’

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