Taylor’s World Darts Championship Hopes Dashed by Second Drugs Test Failure

Details

English darts player Dom Taylor has been kicked out of the World Darts Championship after failing a second drugs test, a move that has left him facing a third-round bye for his opponent, Jonny Clayton. Taylor, 27, had impressed in his Ally Pally debut with a 3-0 win over Oskar Lukasiak in the first round, but his progress was halted after a test conducted on December 14 revealed an adverse analytical finding.

Background

This is not Taylor’s first brush with controversy, having been given a one-month ban earlier this year for a similar offense at the Players Championship Finals in November 2024. The ban was initially two years, but was reduced to three months after Taylor agreed to a UKAD-approved three-month Substance of Abuse treatment program.

Consequences

As a result of the latest test failure, Taylor has been suspended from participating in any Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) regulated events with immediate effect. The DRA has stated that the matter will now be subject to a disciplinary process in line with the relevant DRA Anti-Doping Rules.

Clayton to Receive Bye

Jonny Clayton, who was set to face Taylor in the second round, will now receive a bye into the third round. This development has significant implications for the Welshman’s chances of progressing in the tournament.

Reaction from Taylor

In a previous interview, Taylor spoke about his ban, stating that it was the “biggest letdown of my life” but that he had rebounded and was determined to move forward. However, it remains to be seen how he will react to this latest setback.

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