Chris Dobey is hoping for another congratulatory message from his idol, Alan Shearer, following the 2025 World Darts Championship. Dobey, a lifelong Newcastle United fan, was overjoyed to receive a text from Shearer after winning the Masters in 2023, a victory that earned him a place in that year’s Premier League. With the Sid Waddell Trophy in sight this January, Dobey is hopeful Shearer will again reach out to offer his support.
The 2025 World Championship kicks off today (Saturday), and Dobey reflected on the memorable moment when he received a message from the Newcastle legend. “It was amazing to wake up to a text from him,” Dobey told Sky Sports. “I’ve looked up to him for so many years. In the North East, if you’re kicking a football around, people always mention Shearer’s name. He’s a legend, and getting that text from him was special.”
Dobey’s love for both darts and football runs deep, with his earliest Newcastle memories etched in his mind. “I remember my granddad taking me to a game against Everton in the FA Cup. We won 4-1, and it was a great day,” he recalled.
His admiration for Shearer only grew when they met at St James’ Park. “I saw him in the elevator after a game and asked for a picture with my son. He loved it,” Dobey said, recalling the unforgettable moment.
While Dobey’s 2024 darts season has had its ups and downs, with strong performances at the Players Championship and a heartbreaking first-round loss at the Finals, his recent Ally Pally appearances have shown his potential. Last year, he defeated top names like Ross Smith and reigning world champion Michael Smith with an impressive 102 average in a 4-0 win, before narrowly losing to Rob Cross after giving up a 4-0 lead in the quarter-finals.
As Dobey prepares for this year’s competition, he faces a tough draw, with potential opponents like Joe Cullen, Gerwyn Price, Jonny Clayton, and Smith. However, he has avoided some of the tournament’s biggest threats, including Luke Humphries and Luke Littler, leaving the door open for a deep run. “They won’t want to play me,” Dobey said. “If my scoring and finishing come together, I can go deep.”
With Alan Shearer’s message still fresh in his mind, Dobey, nicknamed ‘Hollywood,’ is ready for a blockbuster performance at the World Darts Championship.
Leave a Reply