Brody Klinge may have lost the Australian Darts Masters final, but he has carved out a unique place in World Series of Darts history. The Australian averaged an impressive 104.56 in the Wollongong decider against James Wade, yet it was the experienced Englishman who claimed the title 8-5. That average is the fourth-highest losing average ever recorded in a World Series final, placing Klinge alongside legends like Michael van Gerwen and Phil Taylor.
Klinge's performance was all the more striking given the circumstances. He maintained excellent form and produced stretches of heavy scoring, but Wade was unmoved by his opponent's high level and pulled clear to win 8-5. Despite the defeat, the final is a major boost for Klinge, as his 104.56 average is higher than what many players need to win a World Series final. Only Michael van Gerwen, Phil Taylor, and Luke Littler have ever posted a higher average in a World Series final and still walked away empty-handed.
The outright record belongs to Van Gerwen, who averaged a phenomenal 110.46 at the 2017 Dubai Darts Masters but lost the final to Gary Anderson. Two years earlier, Phil Taylor produced a similarly exceptional level in Dubai, averaging 107.07 in the final against Van Gerwen, yet had to settle for second place. Luke Littler also features in this select group, having averaged 106.71 in his 2024 Dubai Darts Masters final against Van Gerwen. Like Taylor and Van Gerwen, Littler could not turn his prolific scoring into the title.
Klinge now joins that illustrious company, underlining how impressive his run in Australia was. The 104.56 shows the Australian could match a seasoned name like Wade at the very highest level. For Wade, the victory was special as well, as he secured the first World Series title of his career. He had to dig deep to do it, with Klinge making life decidedly uncomfortable in the final. The Australian kept the pressure on and sustained his level, but Wade's experience told when it mattered most.
Although Klinge ultimately missed out on the trophy, he did leave a notable statistical calling card. With a 104.56 average, his losing final ranks among the best performances ever by a runner-up in a World Series final. The Australian will look back with mixed feelings: the title went to Wade, but Klinge showed he is ready to mix it with the absolute elite.