Stephen Bunting secured his first-ever World Series title with an impressive 8-4 victory over Gerwyn Price in the final of the Bahrain Masters. The 39-year-old Englishman showcased his best form throughout the tournament, defeating top-ranked opponents on his way to lifting the trophy.
A Remarkable Run to the Title
Bunting’s road to glory in Bahrain was nothing short of spectacular. He started by dismantling fellow debutant Chris Dobey with a dominant 6-0 win in the quarter-finals. The semi-finals proved to be a tougher challenge, as he faced world number one Luke Humphries. In a tense encounter, Bunting edged past Humphries 7-6, displaying resilience and precision under pressure.
On the other side of the draw, Gerwyn Price, a former world champion, made headlines by knocking out newly-crowned world champion Luke Littler in the quarter-finals. The 17-year-old Littler, who had won his first senior title in Bahrain in 2023, could not match Price’s brilliance, as the Welshman averaged a tournament-record 115.31 in a commanding 6-2 victory. Price then secured his place in the final by defeating Scotland’s Peter Wright 7-4 in the semi-finals.
Dominance in the Final
Despite Price’s strong form, it was Bunting who shone brightest in the final. Competing in Bahrain for the first time, the Englishman controlled the match from the start, capitalizing on missed opportunities from his opponent. His consistency and composure proved too much for Price, allowing Bunting to claim an 8-4 win and his maiden World Series title.
Speaking to ITV after his triumph, Bunting expressed his confidence and belief in his game. “I am playing the best I have ever played. I’m more consistent than ever before and now I’m believing I can win titles,” he said. He also credited his success to mental preparation, stating, “The hypnotherapy behind the scenes, the psychology in the past, it’s taken a lot of hard work.”
A Career on the Rise
Bunting’s victory in Bahrain marks another milestone in his rising career. Since winning his first televised PDC title at the Cazoo Masters in February 2024, he has continued to make significant strides. Last month, he reached the semi-finals of the World Championship at Alexandra Palace but was halted by the teenage sensation Littler.
Now ranked a career-high world number five, Bunting’s latest success reinforces his status as a serious contender on the professional darts circuit. With newfound confidence and consistency, he looks poised for even greater achievements in the coming months.
As the 2025 season unfolds, Bunting’s Bahrain Masters triumph could serve as the catalyst for further major titles, solidifying his place among the elite in the world of darts.
