Who is Irish darts star Brendan Dolan?
BRENDAN Dolan has made history in the world of professional darts, as his nickname might suggest.
And he’s not done yet — Brendan will be hoping to become the first Northern Irishman to take home the title at the PDC World Darts Championship 2025.
Who is Brendan Dolan?
Brendan Gabriel Dolan, born on August 2, 1973, is a professional darts player from Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
He earned the nickname “The History Maker” by pulling off an incredible feat that had never been done before, which we’ll come to shortly.
Brendan is also known for his unique 180 celebration, where he twirls his finger in a helicopter-style motion.
His walk-on music is I’m Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys.
Early career
Brendan’s journey in darts began at a young age, winning his first competition at 12.
Before joining the PDC in 2002, he had already established himself as a successful youth player in Ireland.
His transition to the professional circuit was gradual, with financial constraints initially limiting his participation in the full PDC tour.
Breakthrough moment
Brendan’s breakthrough moment came in 2010 at the PDC World Grand Prix in Dublin.
He achieved a remarkable feat that earned him his nickname in a match against James Wade.
He became the first player ever to hit a nine-darter in a “double-to-start” event — a format where players must hit a double to begin play.
The historic accomplishment not only showcased his exceptional skill but also propelled him into the spotlight of professional darts.
Robin Hood
In the PDC World Darts Championship 2024, Brendan pulled off another extremely rare darts feat known as the “Robin Hood” in his quarter-final match against teen superstar Luke littler.
A “Robin Hood” is when a player throws their dart and it land in the back of a dart they have already hit on to the board.
The unlikely shot gets its nickname from the story of Robin Hood beating the Sheriff of Nottingham in an archery contest by splitting his arrow down the middle to hit the bullseye.
But the Robin Hood didn’t do Brendan much good — debutante Littler breezed past Dolan with a score 5-1.
He will now face former world champion Rob Cross tomorrow evening to try and live his dream of making the final.
Career highlights
Throughout his career, Brendan has demonstrated consistent performance and gradual improvement.
He has participated in every PDC World Championship since 2009, reaching reached the quarter-finals twice.
His best performance in a major tournament came in 2011 when he reached the final of the World Grand Prix, ultimately losing to Phil Taylor.
On the PDC Pro Tour, as of December 2024, Brendan has amassed ten ranking titles.
His journey to success has not been without challenges — he lost his first seven finals before clinching his maiden ranking title in 2013.
Since then, he has consistently added to his tally, with his most recent victory coming in May 2024 at the Players Championship 10.
Team Northern Ireland
Beyond individual competitions, Brendan has represented Northern Ireland in team events.
He has been a regular fixture in the PDC World Cup of Darts, reaching the semi-finals twice with his Northern Irish team.
So while darts is usually an individual sport, Brendan has also showcased his ability to perform as part of a team.
Ranking
As of December 2024, Brendan is ranked 30th in the PDC Order of Merit.
His career earnings have surpassed £1.4 million, reflecting his longevity and success in the sport.
From making history with his double-to-start nine-dart finish, to consistently competing at the highest level for more than two decades, Brendan has cemented his place as one of Northern Ireland’s most successful darts players of all time.