Overview
- Stephen Bunting disclosed that his young son, Toby, received hateful messages from online trolls following his elimination at Alexandra Palace.
- Bunting, seeded fourth, was beaten 4-3 by James Hurrell in the third round of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship.
- In messages shared on X and Facebook, he thanked fans, family, management and sponsors, saying positive support "deafens the noise" of negativity.
- He said relatives try to shield him from online abuse and he expressed gratitude for their sacrifices throughout the year.
- He acknowledged earlier backlash over calling himself the "people’s champion" after his first-round win and said he intends to feature Toby more in social content next year.