Darts star sends grovelling private message to former world champion for ‘stealing his walk-on’ at Ally Pally

DARTS star Romeo Grbavac issued an apology to Raymond van Barneveld on Wednesday following a mix-up with his walk-on song.

Grbavac shocked fans after walking on stage to ‘Eye of the Tiger’ by Survivor ahead of his World Championship debut at Alexandra Palace.

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Romeo Grbavac walked on to Raymond van Barneveld’s music on his World Championship debut[/caption]

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He stunned fans by walking on to Eye of the Tiger[/caption]

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Van Barneveld has forgiven him for the error[/caption]

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The song has been synonymous with Dutch star Van Barneveld for years, so Grbavac’s use of it sparked some controversy.

A commentator picked up on the bizarre coincidence and said: “Is Raymond van Barneveld watching?

“Because someone has got your walk-out music! Oh my goodness!”

Grbavac went on to lose his opening match 3-0 against Callan Rydz.

He later messaged Van Barneveld to reveal that he did not intend to copy his walk-out music.

Instead, there was seemingly some confusion among those working behind the scenes at Ally Pally.

And Barney shared a message Grbavac sent on X to clear up any controversy.

It read: “Hello Barney. This song wasn’t my choice and I don’t know why they played it!”

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Van Barneveld went on to write: “Ok all is forgiven pal.”

The Dutchman kicks off his World Darts Championship campaign on Saturday against Nick Kenny.

Kenny earned his spot on the bill with a first-round win over Stowe Buntz this week.

Their clash will be followed by Luke Littler‘s opening match against Ryan Meikle.