Raymond Van Barneveld – A Complete Darts Career Guide

Raymond van Barneveld is a five‑time world champion and one of only three players in darts history to win five world titles. He is one of only two players to hit a nine‑dart finish in both BDO and PDC world championship events. After a brief retirement in 2019‑2020, he returned to professional darts and continues to compete in PDC events. His endorsement deal with Target Darts makes his signature dart range one of the most popular on the market. He was born in The Hague, Netherlands, and throws right‑handed despite being naturally left‑handed. He was knighted in the Order of Orange‑Nassau in 1999 for his contributions to the sport.

Who Is Raymond van Barneveld?

Key facts at a glance

• Raymond van Barneveld is a five‑time world champion and one of only three players in darts history to win five world titles.
• He is one of only two players to hit a nine‑dart finish in both BDO and PDC world championship events.
• After a brief retirement in 2019‑2020, he returned to professional darts and continues to compete in PDC events.
• His endorsement deal with Target Darts makes his signature dart range one of the most popular on the market.
• He was born in The Hague, Netherlands, and throws right‑handed despite being naturally left‑handed.
• He was knighted in the Order of Orange‑Nassau in 1999 for his contributions to the sport.

Snapshot facts

What Are Raymond van Barneveld’s Major Achievements?

World Championship titles

Van Barneveld captured his first BDO world title in 1998 at Lakeside, successfully defended it in 1999, added a third in 2003, and a fourth in 2005. In 2007, after switching to the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) ranking system, he defeated Phil Taylor in one of the most famous finals ever to win the PDC world championship.

Nine‑dart finishes

He became the first player to hit a televised nine‑darter in the Premier League (2006) and later in the PDC World Championship (2009). These feats place him among the most accurate finishers in the sport’s history.

Other major titles and records

• 2× UK Open (2007, 2014)
• 2× World Masters (1997, 1998)
• 2× World Darts Trophy (2001, 2002)
• 1× Grand Slam of Darts (2012)
• 1× Premier League of Darts (2014)
• 1× Las Vegas Desert Classic (2005)
• 4× World Cup of Darts champion (with Co Stompe & Michael van Gerwen)
• Highest televised average: 112.28 (2012 Premier League)
• 30th PDC title won in 2024 (Players Championship 5)

Who Is Raymond van Barneveld’s New Wife?

Publicly available information shows that Raymond van Barneveld has been married to Sylvia van Barneveld since the early 1990s. The couple has two children. Despite occasional online speculation about a “new wife,” no credible source has confirmed any change in his marital status. Sylvia remains his spouse, and any mention of a different partner (such as Julia Evans) appears to be unsubstantiated.

Addressing the “new wife” rumors

Some unofficial reports have suggested a marriage to Julia Evans, but these claims do not appear in any verified record or official biography. The uncertainty around this topic likely stems from confusion with other public figures or outdated information.

What Is Raymond van Barneveld’s Net Worth?

Estimates place his net worth at €3–4 million (approximately $3–5 million). This wealth comes primarily from tournament prize money, sponsorship deals (most notably with Target Darts), and endorsements. His long career, including prize money from both BDO and PDC events, has made him one of the financially most successful Dutch darts players.

When Did Raymond van Barneveld Achieve His Major Milestones?

1. 1984 – First official match.
2. 1991 – Dutch Championship win; debut in BDO World Championship.
3. 1998 – First BDO world title (Lakeside).
4. 2006 – Switched to PDC; hit first televised nine‑darter in Premier League.
5. 2007 – Won PDC world championship, defeating Phil Taylor.
6. 2009 – Hit nine‑darter in PDC World Championship.
7. 2020 – Returned to professional darts after a short retirement.
8. 2024 – Won 30th PDC title (Players Championship 5).
9. 2026 – Still active, no confirmed next match as of June 2026.

What Is Known and What Remains Uncertain About Raymond van Barneveld?

How Did Raymond van Barneveld Change Darts?

Van Barneveld played a central role in the Dutch darts revolution, breaking the British monopoly on world titles and helping transform darts into a global sport. His fierce rivalry with Phil Taylor produced legendary matches that drew massive TV audiences. He is often credited with inspiring a generation of Dutch players, including Michael van Gerwen.

Which darts set does Raymond van Barneveld use?

He throws signature Target Darts – a set designed in collaboration with the brand. The barrels feature a distinctive shape and grip pattern that suit his throw. His darts are widely available for purchase through the Target Darts website and other retailers, making them a popular choice for both amateur and professional players.

What Do Official Sources Say About Raymond van Barneveld?

“Van Barneveld is a five‑time world champion and the first player to hit a nine‑dart finish in both BDO and PDC competitions.”
– Wikipedia

“Raymond van Barneveld, known as ‘Barney,’ is one of history’s most successful darts players.”
– Target Darts official profile

What Is the Overall Picture of Raymond van Barneveld’s Career?

Raymond van Barneveld remains a towering figure in professional darts. With five world titles, multiple nine‑darters, and a career spanning more than four decades, he has cemented his place alongside the sport’s all‑time greats. His return to competition after a brief retirement shows a continued passion for the game, and fans are watching closely for any announcements about his 2026 schedule. For more on the sport’s elite, see our list of the Best darts players of all time.

Frequently Asked Questions