Robert Thornton forced to withdraw from World Seniors Champion of Champions; Multiple-time world champion steps in as replacement

On the 29th of June, the latest installment of the World Seniors Darts Tour unfolds from the MODUS Super Series Live Lounge in Portsmouth. Sadly however, Robert Thornton will no longer be in action there.

The news comes via an update from World Seniors Darts themselves. "Due to personal reasons, Robert Thornton will no longer be competing at the upcoming BetGoodwin Champion of Champions," announces a post on the official social media pages of World Seniors Darts.

Thornton, a two time major winner under the PDC banner has been one of the most successful players in the history of Seniors Tour since losing his Tour Card. Twice lifting the World Championship title in 2022 and 2023, 'The Thorn' also claimed the World Seniors Darts Matchplay title back in 2022.

Stepping up to fill the shoes of Thronton, is one of the most successful women's darts players of all-time - 10 time women's world champion Trina Gulliver. "The Scot will be replaced by ten-time World Champion Trina Gulliver for the tournament to be held at MODUS Live Lounge in Portsmouth on Sunday 29th June," say World Seniors Darts of thei replacement. "'Golden Girl' Gulliver is one of the most highly-decorated players that the sport of darts has seen, and she takes her place in the 12-player line-up on the South Coast."

Gulliver now joins a strong field of some of the biggest and best talents on the over 45 circuit, including PDC Tour Card holder Raymond van Barneveld who is set to cross the divide and make his debut on the Seniors Tour.

Also among the lineup are the reigning Champion of Champions Richie Howson, reigning Seniors world champion Ross Montgomery and former world champion John Henderson. Plus the notable and recognisable names of Richie Burnett, Steve Beaton, Simon Whitlock, Mervyn King, Martin Adams, Neil Duff and Kevin Painter.