US Darts Masters has quickly become a key stop on the World Series of Darts tour. Held annually in New York, the event not only features global stars but also aims to grow the sport’s popularity in the United States. With rising attendance, viewership, and competitive performances from North American qualifiers, the tournament plays a critical role in darts’ international expansion.
Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting entered the 2025 US Darts Masters as two of the favorites. Both players brought significant experience and recent form, making their exits even more shocking to fans and analysts alike.
Rob Cross: A Disappointing Performance on American Soil
Rob Cross, a former PDC World Champion, has historically performed well in international events. However, his 2025 US Darts Masters campaign was short-lived. Cross faced a tough draw and was matched against a confident North American player who capitalized on every opportunity.
Despite showing flashes of his trademark precision, Cross struggled to maintain rhythm throughout the match. Uncharacteristic misses at crucial moments allowed his opponent to gain momentum. The final scoreline reflected not just an upset but a noticeable dip in form from the Englishman.
Cross later acknowledged the quality of his opponent and admitted he didn’t bring his best game. “It’s always tough traveling, but no excuses. He played better, and I just didn’t find my range,” Cross said in a post-match interview.
Stephen Bunting Falls Victim to a Rising Star
Stephen Bunting, known for his smooth throw and resilient mentality, also bowed out earlier than expected in the US Darts Masters. Facing a local wildcard entry, Bunting was unable to assert control and lost in a match that saw several momentum shifts.
Although he started strong, Bunting couldn’t sustain the pressure. His opponent took full advantage, landing timely finishes and keeping the crowd energized. It marked a disappointing chapter in Bunting’s otherwise strong 2025 season.
The result highlights the unpredictability of the US Darts Masters, where even seasoned professionals can be toppled by emerging talent from North America.
North American Players Make Their Mark
One of the most exciting developments in this year’s US Darts Masters is the rise of North American players. Historically underrepresented at the top levels of the sport, American and Canadian competitors are now demonstrating that they can challenge—and even surpass—some of the world’s best.
Victories over Cross and Bunting were not just isolated events. Several other North American players have advanced to later stages, showcasing skill levels that rival those of their European counterparts. This shift is a testament to the growing competitiveness and development of darts across the continent.
What Cross and Bunting’s Exits Mean for the Tournament
The early elimination of two high-profile contenders has opened the field for other top names and underdogs alike. With Cross and Bunting out, the dynamics of the US Darts Masters have shifted significantly, adding a layer of unpredictability to the remaining matches.
Fans are now eager to see whether another top-seeded player will fall or if a North American representative can go all the way to the final. The tournament’s following stages promise to be intense and unpredictable.
Analysis: What Went Wrong?
For Rob Cross, the issue appeared to be inconsistency. Though capable of scoring heavily, he lacked his usual accuracy on doubles and made unforced errors that proved costly. His opponent, on the other hand, kept calm and capitalized on every opening.
Stephen Bunting’s match told a similar story. While his scoring was respectable, his inability to finish his legs efficiently led to missed opportunities. These small margins are often decisive at the US Darts Masters, where each leg carries significant weight.
Experts believe that both players underestimated the pressure of playing against local talent, who were hungry to prove themselves on a world stage.
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Reactions from the Darts Community
Fans and pundits have expressed a mix of surprise and admiration following the unexpected outcomes. Social media was abuzz with reactions as the news of Cross and Bunting’s exits spread.
Many have praised the growing talent pool in North America, noting that the US Darts Masters is becoming a platform where regional players can earn global recognition. Others emphasized that such results are healthy for the sport, as they demonstrate that no player is unbeatable.
Prominent former players also weighed in, calling the matches “wake-up calls” for top professionals not to underestimate lesser-known opponents, especially in front of a passionate home crowd.
The Role of the US Darts Masters in Shaping the Sport
More than just a tournament, the US Darts Masters serves as a bridge between the traditional strongholds of darts in Europe and the emerging markets in North America. By featuring international stars alongside regional talents, the event provides invaluable experience to local players while giving fans a taste of top-tier darts.
The upsets involving Cross and Bunting will only enhance the event’s reputation. They demonstrate that the level of play is improving and that surprises are not just possible—they’re becoming more frequent.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Cross and Bunting?
Despite their early exits, both Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting are expected to bounce back. The darts calendar remains packed with opportunities, and both players have the skill and determination to recover from setbacks.
The losses at the US Darts Masters may serve as motivation. With other World Series events and ranking tournaments on the horizon, Cross and Bunting will be eager to return to form and reclaim their status among the game’s elite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is the US Darts Masters?
The US Darts Masters is part of the PDC World Series of Darts, featuring top international players competing alongside North American talent. It’s held annually in the United States and plays a key role in growing the sport in the region.
Where is the US Darts Masters held?
The tournament is typically hosted in New York City, often at iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, drawing fans from across the country and around the world.
Why were Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting’s losses considered upsets?
Both Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting are highly ranked and experienced professionals. Their early exits were unexpected, given their status as favorites in the competition.
Who eliminated Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting?
They were both defeated by rising North American players, showcasing the increasing competitiveness of the regional talent pool in the US Darts Masters.
How does the US Darts Masters impact darts globally?
The tournament helps expand the sport’s international reach, providing exposure to North American players and contributing to the development of a fan base in the United States.
Are North American players gaining prominence in the US Darts Masters?
Yes, recent editions have seen significant performances from US and Canadian players, proving they can compete with the world’s best and even cause major upsets.
Is the US Darts Masters part of the ranking system?
While it is part of the World Series of Darts, it typically doesn’t count toward PDC Order of Merit rankings but does carry prestige and exposure for participants.
Will Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting compete again in the US Darts Masters?
Both players will likely return in future editions as they remain top-level professionals. Their early exits may even motivate them to perform better in upcoming tournaments.
Conclusion
The 2025 US Darts Masters has already delivered one of its most memorable editions thanks to the shock eliminations of Rob Cross and Stephen Bunting. Their early departures have reshaped the tournament landscape, given rise to new heroes, and underscored the sport’s global growth. As darts continues to expand its footprint in the United States, results like these show that the US Darts Masters is more than just a showcase—it’s a battleground where reputations can be made or broken.
