Suljovic Denies Cheating Claim After Cullen Criticises Slow Play
Mensur Suljovic has rejected accusations of cheating after Joe Cullen criticised his slow style of play following their second-round clash at the PDC World Darts Championship.
Cullen was knocked out of the tournament after a 3–1 defeat at Alexandra Palace, despite winning the opening set. The Englishman later claimed Suljovic’s deliberate pace disrupted his rhythm and amounted to unfair play.
Cullen voices frustration after defeat
Cullen, the tournament’s 32nd seed, took the first set before Suljovic responded by winning the next three. The turning point came in the fourth set, where Cullen surrendered a 2–1 lead as the Austrian closed out the match.
Also Read: Newcastle vs Chelsea Ends in 2-2 Draw After Early Newcastle Lead
Following the loss, Cullen posted on X, describing his opponent’s approach as “cheating” and questioning whether such tactics should be considered part of professional darts. He suggested the slow pace was visible to everyone watching and went beyond normal match play.
Cullen’s frustration was also evident on stage, where he shook his head and looked back at Suljovic as the Austrian celebrated the victory.
Suljovic rejects allegations
Speaking after the match, Suljovic denied using any form of gamesmanship. The 53-year-old said his tempo was purely for his own performance and not intended to provoke or unsettle his opponent.
“I never ever do this as a provocation,” Suljovic said. “I do it only for my game. Sorry Joe, I never do this.”
Also Read: Man City vs West Ham City Eye Top Spot
PDC rules and slow play debate
The Professional Darts Corporation does not enforce a strict time limit on throws. However, deliberate slow play designed to disrupt an opponent can be deemed unsportsmanlike conduct and may constitute a rules breach.
The incident has reignited debate within the sport over pace of play, with opinions divided between those who see it as a legitimate personal rhythm and those who believe it undermines fair competition.
Next challenge awaits Suljovic
Suljovic is scheduled to face defending champion Luke Littler, who is due to play David Davies later on Sunday evening.
Also Read: Indian Football Faces Collapse as ISL Remain in Limbo
Other results at Alexandra Palace
Elsewhere in the tournament, 2018 world champion Rob Cross progressed to the third round with a composed 3–1 win over Ian White, easing concerns after a difficult year marked by early tournament exits.
Krzysztof Ratajski defeated Ryan Joyce 3–1 to book his place in the next round, while Luke Woodhouse advanced comfortably with a straight-sets victory over Max Hopp.
The evening session also features Gerwyn Price against Wesley Plaisier, along with Damon Heta’s match against Stefan Bellmont, as the championship builds toward the Christmas break.
