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'Stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy darts' - Paul Lim sends powerful message after securing PDC World Darts Championship return at 71(!)

Originally posted on Dartsnews.com | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 11:21 AM ET

“Stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy darts.” It was with this typically heartfelt sign-off that Paul Lim rounded off his Facebook post reflecting on a gruelling but unforgettable week in Qingdao – one that ended with the 71-year-old Singaporean confirming his return to the biggest stage of all: the PDC World Darts Championship.

The words carried weight far beyond their simplicity. Lim is a pioneer, a global ambassador, and living proof that passion for the sport can outlast the passing of decades. From his famous televised nine-darter in 1990 to his trailblazing role in developing darts across Asia, he has always led by example. Now, even as he approaches his mid-seventies, Lim is still carving out fresh milestones.

“Horrible trip” ends in history

His latest adventure began in Japan, with a long and frustrating route via Beijing to Qingdao. “From Tokyo to Beijing and from Beijing to Qingdao. Took like 15 hours because of the delay in Beijing,” Lim recalled in a post on his Facebook page afterwards. “Going through airport gate transfer and then through immigration in Beijing was frustrating. Horrible trip.”

Yet the nightmare journey did not distract from the task at hand. Qingdao staged the final four events of the Asia Tour alongside the prestigious Asia Championship, with World Championship qualification on the line. Against a high-quality field from across the continent, Lim again proved that class and experience can overcome adversity.

“Well everything was up for grabs till the final 28th stage,” he reflected. “As it turned out I end up 5th in the OOM for Asia Tour. And the last two days fighting for the Asia Championship was a battle from the RR start of the 48 players in 16 groups. Only one comes out of each group to the SKO for top 16.”

Narrow semi-final defeat, priceless qualification

Lim’s campaign came to an agonising halt in the semi-finals, losing 6–5 to eventual finalist Alexis Toylo. “I end up in the semi-final losing to Alexis 6–5,” he admitted. It was a defeat, but far from a disappointment – the result, combined with his Order of Merit position, was enough to secure a return to Alexandra Palace.

The outcomes of Toylo and Lourence Ilagan also reshaped the wider picture. “By Ilagan winning and Alexis 2nd, the PDC World Championship spots were extended to the 6th and 7th place of the Asia Tour OOM. Congratulations to Hugo Leung and Paulo Nebrida to join the group of players going to the World Championship,” Lim wrote, underlining his determination to celebrate others’ success as much as his own.

A message of gratitude

Lim’s reflections, as ever, were steeped in humility and gratitude. “I want to congratulate not only the winners and the players that qualified, but to all the players that make the effort to commit to the challenges of the PDC Asia Tour,” he said.

“I am thankful and grateful to PDC Asia and PDC for making this possible for us in Asia. I am also thankful to the sponsors that help with the tour. As for myself, I want to thank my sponsors that have the faith in me and help me through every step of the way.”

Ally Pally awaits

For darts followers, Lim requires little introduction. His career stretches back to the 1970s, punctuated by pioneering achievements that have inspired multiple generations. That he remains competitive on the PDC Asia Tour into his eighth decade is nothing short of extraordinary.

Now the focus shifts to London. Lim’s latest World Championship campaign promises to be one of the most celebrated stories of this year’s tournament. While titles may not be the expectation, his mere presence on the Ally Pally stage stands as a reminder of what he represents to darts: resilience, inspiration, and love for the game.

His own words, though, say it best. “I will do my best and get ready for the PDC World Championship 2025/26. As usual – stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy darts.”

A timeless message from a timeless legend.

This article first appeared on Dartsnews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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