What Is a 9 Dart Finish? The Ultimate Guide for All Darts Fans
A 9-dart finish is not just a milestone-it is the seal of finishing or excellence in darts. Whether you are just a viewer watching the pros play, or a player still in pursuit of your first perfect leg, it sums up the best that the game has to offer talent, precision, and concentration.
Now that you’ve understood all about this impressive achievement, grab your darts and start honing—you could even become the next to join the league of 9 dart legends
What Exactly Is a 9 Dart Finish
In darts, every round starts with a total of 501 points. The goal is to bring this score down to zero while finishing on a double segment of the dartboard. A 9-dart finish is the fastest possible way to achieve this—just nine perfect throws
How Is a 9 Dart Finish Achieved?
A 9 dart finish requires a specific sequence of scores, with each dart strategically aimed. The most common routes involve targeting high-scoring areas of the dartboard, particularly the triple 20 segment.
Most Common Route
This is the standard way players achieve a 9 dart finish
| First 3 Darts | Next 3 Darts | Final 3 Darts |
|---|---|---|
| Triple 20 (180 points) | Triple 20 (180 points) | Triple 20 (60), Triple 19 (57), Double 12 (24) |
Alternative Routes
While the above route is the most common, other paths to a 9 dart finish are possible
Route 1
| First 3 Darts | Next 3 Darts | Final 3 Darts |
|---|---|---|
| Triple 20 (180 points) | Triple 20 (180 points) | Triple 20, Triple 17, Bullseye ( 141 Points ) |
Route 2
| First 3 Darts | Next 3 Darts | Final 3 Darts |
|---|---|---|
| Triple 20, Triple 19 (177 points ) | Triple 20, Triple 17, Double 18 (177 points ) | Triple 20, Triple 17, Bullseye ( 147 Points ) |
Scoring Diagram: Routes to a 9 Dart Finish
Below is a visual representation of three common scoring routes for a 9 dart finish. Each bar shows the points achieved in each of the three throws.
This diagram helps simplify the sequences, making it easier for you to visualize how players strategically aim for their scores.
Why Is a 9 Dart Finish So Difficult?
The 9 dart finish is extremely uncommon, because it’s incredibly hard to achieve. Here’s what makes it so difficult:
Pinpoint Accuracy
Every dart must land perfectly. Even one slight misthrow ruins the sequence.
Consistency Under Pressure
Players must sustain their accuracy across all nine darts, often in high-stakes situations.
Mental Game
As players approach the final throws, the pressure to perform perfectly can be overwhelming.
Odds
Statistically, a 9 dart finish is exceedingly rare, even among professional players. Many legends of the game have never achieved it
The History of 9 Dart Finishes
The first recorded 9 dart finish dates back decades, but its popularity soared with televised darts. Here are key moments in its history:
First Televised 9 Dart Finish:
John Lowe achieved this feat in 1984 during the World Matchplay, earning his position in darts legacy
Phil Taylor’s Impact
Called as “The Power,” Taylor retains the title for the most broadcasted 9 dart completions, with beyond 20 to his credit.
Women in Darts:
Fallon Sherrock gained attention for accomplishing a 9 dart success in a non-televised game, motivating more women to engage at the top level.
Memorable 9 Dart Finishes in History
Some moments stand out as unforgettable examples of this incredible feat:
Michael van Gerwen (2013):
Came close to one throw of landing consecutive 9 dart completions during the Premier League—a record still unbeaten
Adrian Lewis (2011)
Secured a 9 dart success in the conclusion of the PDC World Championship, among the sport’s top celebrated competitions
Raymond van Barneveld (2006)
Landed two 9 dart achievements in a single contest during the UK Open, highlighting his mastery.
Tips to Achieve Your First 9 Dart Finish
Even as a beginner, you can train with these strategies to get closer to your own 9 dart finish:
Focus on the Triple 20:
Practice hitting the Triple 20 consistently—it’s the foundation of most sequences.
Train on Doubles
Finish your practice sessions with double segments like Double 12 or Double 18. These are crucial for a 9 dart finish.
Build Muscle Memory
Repetition is key. Develop a smooth and consistent throwing motion.
Simulate Pressure
Challenge yourself by setting stakes in practice games to mimic the high-pressure environment of a match
Fun Facts About 9 Dart Finishes
Televised VS Non-Televised
Many players achieve 9 dart finishes during practice, but these don’t count as official records.
Double 12 Love
Double 12 is the most common finishing dart for a 9 dart finish
Fastest Ever
The quickest recorded 9 dart finish in a match was hit in just over 30 seconds!
Conclusion
A 9 dart finish isn’t merely a milestone—it’s an emblem of excellence in darts. Whether you’re a supporter observing the pros or a competitor pursuing your first flawless leg, it showcases the finest of what the activity has to provide: talent, accuracy, and dedication.
Now that you’ve learned all about this remarkable accomplishment, pick up your darts and start training—you could even be the next to enter the group of 9 dart icons!
Eager to sharpen your darts skills? Check out our beginner’s guide to dartboard strategies or dive into our advanced tips for consistent scoring!
