English darts player Dom Taylor has been suspended from the 2025 World Darts Championship following a failed anti-doping test, marking his second violation in under a year. The Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) confirmed the immediate ban after Taylor tested positive for a prohibited substance during routine screening on December 14.
Tournament Fallout and Clayton's Advance
Taylor, who secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Sweden's Oskar Lukasiak in the first round, was scheduled to face Welsh standout Jonny Clayton in Saturday's second round. With Taylor's disqualification, Clayton receives an automatic bye to the third round of the prestigious Alexandra Palace event.
Repeat Offender Facing Consequences
This incident follows Taylor's one-month suspension in January 2025 for a prior doping violation at the 2024 Players Championship Finals. His initial two-year ban was reduced to three months after authorities determined the substance wasn't performance-enhancing, then further shortened to one month upon completing a UK Anti-Doping-approved rehabilitation program.
"The DRA has suspended Dom Taylor from all regulated events effective immediately," stated the governing body. "This matter will undergo confidential disciplinary proceedings per anti-doping protocols."
Player's Turbulent Journey
Ranked 65th globally entering the tournament, Taylor had shown promise with multiple Challenger Tour victories and semi-final appearances in Players Championship events. When questioned about his previous ban after his first-round win, Taylor admitted: "It was the lowest point of my career, but I've worked to rebuild."
The World Darts Championship continues through January 3, with all matches broadcast live on Sky Sports. Taylor's case now awaits formal review under UK Anti-Doping regulations.
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