Expanded PDC World Darts Championship set to begin
Alexandra Palace will host its most expansive PDC World Darts Championship to date, with an unprecedented 128 competitors battling for the prestigious Sid Waddell Trophy, reports BritPanorama.
The tournament commences on Thursday, 11 December, and runs for more than three weeks, culminating in the final on Friday, 3 January. Notably, the championship will pause for a festive intermission from Christmas Eve through Boxing Day, resuming competition on 27 December.
This year’s format represents the largest field ever assembled at the iconic north London venue, with players competing for a share of the substantial £5 million prize pool, marking a significant milestone in the tournament’s history.
The champion will take home a cheque of £1 million, while the runner-up will receive £400,000 from the record prize fund. The prize structure rewards progress through each round, with semifinalists earning £200,000 and quarterfinalists securing £100,000.
The current world number one, Luke Littler, returns to defend his crown as the tournament’s top seed. As reigning champion and bookmaker’s favourite, he leads a competitive field, which includes former champion Luke Humphries, seeded second and eyeing another title.
Players reaching the fourth round will earn £60,000, while those making it to the third round will claim £35,000. Second-round participants are guaranteed £25,000, and first-round players will receive £15,000. An additional £60,000 bonus awaits any player achieving a nine-dart finish.
This tournament marks a watershed moment with five women competitors participating at Alexandra Palace for the first time in the championship’s history. Among these pioneering players are Beau Greaves and Fallon Sherrock, who secured their places through international qualifying tournaments.
Lisa Ashton will face 28th seed Michael Smith, while Noa-Lynn van Leuven meets 30th seed Peter Wright. Gemma Hayter will encounter 11th seed Josh Rock, and Sherrock will face 21st seed Dave Chisnall, with Greaves up against 22nd seed Daryl Gurney. These first-round matches signify a significant step forward for women’s participation in the sport’s premier championship.
The tournament field is drawn from 40 players qualified through the main PDC Order of Merit, determined by prize money accumulated over two years. The highest-ranked 32 competitors gain direct advancement to the second round, while positions 33 to 40 enter at the opening stage.
Another 40 players earn spots via the ProTour Order of Merit, based on performances in smaller, untelevised competitions, beginning their campaigns in the first round. The remainder of the spots are allocated to international qualifiers from regional tours and global events, ensuring diverse representation. This varied qualification system creates a comprehensive field that balances elite talent with emerging players worldwide.
As the countdown to the championship begins, a vibrant competition is expected, showcasing the growing appeal and talent within the sport, with every tournament offering fresh surprises and defining moments.
