Rob Cross beat Gerwyn Price 8-7 in a thrilling encounter at the US Darts Masters in New York on Saturday.
The 33-year-old Englishman failed to maintain the lead at any stage of the final until the decider.
Price, who defeated teenage sensation Luke Littler 7-6 in the semifinals at Madison Square Garden, got off to a strong start as he quickly opened a 2-0 lead in the final.
Cross finally got on the board in Game 3 as both men began exchanging treble 20s in regulation.
After Cross tied the score at 2-2, Price dominated again in game five to take a big lead, hitting a double top with his second dart to make it 3-2.
Price continued to open a two-leg lead throughout the match, but Cross refused to lie down and stayed in touch with the Welshman as his frustration with Price began to build.
The 39-year-old missed several opportunities to put his opponent away as the game progressed, and Price continued to come through in the clutch to claim his fourth World Series title in front of more than 3,500 fans.
After the win, Cross said: “It’s amazing, (I’m) so grateful to be sitting here tonight with (the US Darts Masters title).
“I've played well all year and I think I played well last year. I don't think I need to change anything. I think I just need to be a little more disciplined.
“It’s like a gravy train. As long as it keeps going, we’re all okay.”
Defeated finalist Gerwyn Price beat teen sensation Luke Littler to advance to New York finals
He also emphasized the importance of the World Series, adding, “I think it's very important to be here because if you want to be the best in the world, it takes you all over the world.”
“Darts is bigger than it’s ever been. I think it’s in a good position and that’s very important to me and everyone.”
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