David Munyua is determined to inspire a new generation of Kenyan dart players after creating history at the 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship.
Munyua generated global headlines with an extraordinary Alexandra Palace debut on Thursday, as he became the first Kenyan to compete in the sport’s flagship event.
Roared on by a capacity crowd in North London, Munyua overturned a two-set deficit to stun Belgian number one Mike De Decker, in one of the biggest upsets in the tournament’s illustrious history.
“That was crazy, it’s too much to express right now. I did not expect it, but I’m so excited to have won,” reflected an overwhelmed Munyua post-match.
“Being the first Kenyan to play at the World Championship, I’ve never been in this kind of a venue before with the noise and the pressure.
“Everyone back in my country is going crazy about it. It is a special feeling for me and players back in my country.”
Munyua was inspired on the sport's biggest stage, threatening to produce a nine-darter and conjuring up a spectacular 135 checkout on the bull midway through the fifth and decisive set.
The 30-year-old then capitalised on De Decker’s doubling woes in the latter stages, winning three consecutive legs in set five to eliminate the former World Grand Prix champion.
It will come as no surprise that Munyua’s story has captured the imagination of the sporting world, with the Kenyan having never left Africa prior to this year’s World Championship.
“In East Africa we have great players, and now I am sure everyone back home is encouraged that we can do this,” added Munyua, who only discovered darts in a Kenyan pub three years ago.
“Darts in my country has not been embraced as it should be. I didn’t know much about Darts when I was growing up.
“We have not achieved so much, but now we have achieved something, so let’s grow the sport.
“It’s a big step for me, and for dart players in Kenya. This could be life-changing.”
Munyua is a full-time veterinarian back home in Nairobi, where he balances his work commitments alongside his darting ambitions.
However, having already secured at least £25,000 in prize money following his ground-breaking victory, the man nicknamed ‘Why Not’ has his sights set on further history.
“This can do a lot for me and my family, and peers in my country,” declared Munyua, who will meet either Kevin Doets or Matthew Dennant in round two.
“I have a passion for helping animals, and I also have a passion for growing sport in our area.
“Through the day I am helping my animals, and through the night I am playing my darts.
“Now I have a chance to inspire, and I would like to be known as an idol in my country!”