David Munyua’s stunning upset at the PDC World Darts Championship has people asking why fans in London cheered more for the Kenyan player than for his opponent, Belgium’s Mike De Decker. The match happened on December 18, 2025, at Alexandra Palace.
Munyua, a 30-year-old vet from Murang’a County, came back from 2-0 down to win 3-2. It marked one of the biggest shocks in the tournament’s history.
Crowds at Ally Pally love underdogs. De Decker was the favourite, ranked world number 18 and a recent major winner. Munyua was making his debut as the first Kenyan ever in the event. Fans got behind him quickly.
They booed De Decker at times and sang songs like “Walking in a Munyua Wonderland”. The atmosphere turned loud and partisan.
Part of the excitement came from Munyua’s sponsor, UK betting tipster Andy Robson. Robson runs Andy’s Bet Club and backed Munyua fully. He covered costs after local efforts in Kenya raised some money for the trip. Robson promoted the story heavily to his large following.
He encouraged bets on the underdog and tied donations to charity for every leg won. Many UK punters placed money on Munyua at long odds. When he won, they cashed in big. That led to extra celebrations online and in the venue.
In Kenya, people raised funds through clubs and small donations, like 50 shillings each. Darts Kenya and friends helped get him to London.
Government bodies, including the Ministry of Sports and Magical Kenya, turned down requests for help. They said funds go mainly to football and athletics, not what the ministry calls “pub sports”.
Munyua urged fans to bet on him as the outsider. His win paid out well for those who did. UK bettors shared wins on social media, adding to the buzz.
After the match, government officials congratulated him fast. President William Ruto posted praise, calling it historic. Some Kenyans noted the change from earlier denials of support.
Munyua’s story caught attention beyond the score. He dealt with a wasp landing on his face mid-match but stayed calm. As a vet, he gently put it in his pocket. He borrowed darts for the game and had never left Africa before.
The win guarantees him at least £15,000 in prize money. He advances to face another player next. Darts fans hope it grows the sport back home.
This match showed how crowds embrace fresh faces. Munyua brought energy and a comeback spirit. UK fans, many tied through the sponsor and bets, made it feel like a home win for the visitor.
Reactions keep coming in. The tournament continues into January. Munyua’s run has already made waves on both sides of the world.
