Suljovic denies slow play ‘cheating’ claim from Cullen

After the 32nd seed was eliminated from the PDC World Darts Championship, Joe Cullen claims Mensur Suljovic’s slow play amounts to cheating.

Suljovic, an Austrian, denied using any particular strategies to enhance his second-round success.

The 53-year-old said, “I never ever do this as a provocation.” I only do it for the sake of playing. I’m sorry, but I’ll never do this. I’m sorry, man.

Cullen, an Englishman, won the first set but lost the third and fourth sets, including allowing a 2-1 lead to expire. He then fell to 11th place.

In a post on X, Cullen said, “If that’s darts, I don’t want no part of it.”

Mensur was always liked away from the board, but everyone could see that! I don’t believe I’m the only person who experiences this. It’s a part of the game, according to the old guard, but use your word for it: it’s cheating. Darts are not a dart.

The 36-year-old shook his head as he picked up his darts case and glared at the Austrian as he celebrated his victory in front of the crowd after the match.

Due to deliberate slow play intended to disrupt an opponent, which is not covered by the PDC’s specific, timed rules, it is considered unsportsmanlike conduct and a potential rules violation.

Luke Littler, the defending champion, will face David Davies on Sunday night, Suljovic is the next opponent.

Rob Cross, the 2018 champion and 17th seed, won a gruesome encounter 3-1 to avoid losing to Ian White.

Afternoon tea session

Evening session (from 19: 00 GMT):