Key Stats

Major Awards and Achievements

Major Titles Won: Players Championship 13 (2019)

William O’Connor’s standout moment came at the 2019 Players Championship 13 in Barnsley, where he secured his first-ever PDC ranking title. The victory was a milestone in his career, demonstrating his ability to compete with the very best on the ProTour circuit. O’Connor’s road to the title was anything but easy, defeating several top players including Nathan Aspinall and Daryl Gurney. The final match showcased his composure under pressure as he claimed a decisive victory to etch his name in the PDC winner’s circle.

Times Finishing in the Top 5: 4

O’Connor has achieved four notable top-five finishes in prestigious tournaments, a testament to his consistency and growth as a player. One of the most significant performances came during the 2019 World Cup of Darts, where he led Ireland to a historic final. His other top-five achievements include strong showings in the Players Championship events and European Tour competitions, where he regularly defeated higher-seeded opponents. These finishes solidified his status as a reliable contender on the professional circuit.

Times Finishing in the Top 10: 6

William O’Connor has made it to the top ten in six major tournaments, marking himself as a player capable of navigating the most challenging stages. His top-ten runs often feature key wins over higher-ranked opponents, showcasing his ability to deliver when it matters most. Notably, his quarter-final appearance at the 2018 Dutch Darts Championship saw him dispatch some of the game’s elite players. Such achievements reflect O’Connor’s growing consistency and his ability to peak in high-stakes matches.

Significant Matches

Significant Matches: 2019 World Cup of Darts Final

The 2019 World Cup of Darts Final was a career-defining moment for William O’Connor. Teaming up with Steve Lennon, O’Connor represented Ireland in one of the most prestigious events in the PDC calendar. The pair stormed through the competition, defeating powerhouse teams like the Netherlands and England to reach the final. In a thrilling showdown, they faced Scotland’s Gary Anderson and Peter Wright. Although Ireland fell short, O’Connor’s leadership and clinical finishing were instrumental in their historic run. This final remains one of the most significant achievements in Irish darts history.

2019 Players Championship 13 Final

At the 2019 Players Championship 13, O’Connor delivered one of his finest performances to date. Overcoming a tough draw, he defeated multiple high-profile players on his way to the final. In the decisive match, he showcased excellent scoring and precision on doubles to secure his first PDC title. This victory not only boosted his confidence but also proved that he could thrive under pressure on the PDC circuit.

Career Statistics

Career Earnings: Approx. £350,000

William O’Connor has amassed approximately £350,000 in prize money throughout his PDC career. His earnings reflect consistent performances across ProTour events, European Tour competitions, and major televised tournaments. The 2019 World Cup of Darts and his Players Championship title win significantly contributed to this figure, along with his steady progress in the World Championship and UK Open.

Win Percentage: 49.8%

O’Connor’s overall career win percentage of 49.8% underscores his competitiveness on the professional circuit. His ability to win critical legs in tight matches has often set him apart, particularly against higher-ranked opponents. Notable seasons, such as 2019, saw his win percentage peak, reflecting his form and ability to challenge for titles.

9-Dart Finishes: 2

O’Connor has achieved the elusive 9-dart finish twice in his professional career, a testament to his skill and precision. One of these perfect legs occurred during the 2019 European Tour, where his flawless sequence electrified the crowd and demonstrated his ability to perform under intense pressure.

Checkout Percentage: 60%+ in Key Matches

One of O’Connor’s standout qualities is his proficiency on doubles. In key matches, such as the World Cup of Darts and Players Championship finals, his checkout percentage often exceeds 60%. His ability to hit doubles under pressure has been instrumental in securing victories and pushing matches to deciding legs.

Key Rivals

Michael van Gerwen:

O’Connor has had several memorable encounters with Dutch darting icon Michael van Gerwen. Their rivalry peaked during the 2019 Danish Darts Open, where O’Connor pushed the world number one to his limits in a tense final. While Van Gerwen emerged victorious, O’Connor’s performance earned him widespread respect.

Daryl Gurney:

A notable domestic rival, Daryl Gurney has often been a benchmark for O’Connor in Irish darts. Their matches are fiercely competitive, with both players pushing each other to perform at their best. Their encounters in the UK Open and ProTour events have been highlights of O’Connor’s career.

Personal Life

Outside of darts, William O’Connor is a proud Irishman who enjoys fishing and traditional Irish music. A family-oriented individual, he credits his family’s support for his success on the darting stage. When he’s not competing, O’Connor spends time mentoring young players and promoting the sport in Ireland.

Conclusion

William O’Connor, known as “The Magpie,” is a stalwart of the professional darts scene. With a mix of significant achievements, standout performances, and consistent growth, he remains a key figure in the sport. Fans eagerly anticipate his future successes as he continues to rise on the PDC circuit.