The World Grand Prix is set to unfold at Leicester's iconic Mattioli Arena, with the competition kicking off on September 28 and being broadcast live on Sky Sports. This tournament stands out in the darts calendar because it employs a double‑start format, meaning that every leg must be opened and concluded on a double or the bullseye, adding an extra layer of skill and strategy for the competitors. A total of thirty‑two players will vie for the coveted title, comprising the top sixteen athletes from the PDC Werner Rankings Ladder and the highest‑ranked sixteen players from the ProTour Rankings who have not yet secured a spot. These participants will battle not only for prestige but also for a significantly increased top prize of £150,000, reflecting the event’s growing importance within the sport.
Defending champion Luke Littler will take centre stage in Leicester, looking to cement his status as the reigning World Grand Prix champion. Littler’s previous triumph has already placed him among the elite, and his presence adds a compelling narrative as he attempts to defend his crown against a field packed with seasoned veterans and rising stars. Also in contention is 2023 champion Luke Humphries, who will be eager to add a second World Grand Prix title to his résumé. Humphries has demonstrated consistency and composure throughout his career, and a repeat victory would solidify his standing as one of the premier players of his generation.
The Dutch contingent will be represented by number one Gian van Veen, who returns to the Mattioli Arena after last year’s record‑breaking average performance, albeit in a losing effort against Littler. Van Veen’s ambition will be to improve upon that historic showing and claim the trophy that eluded him previously. Fans are also encouraged to use the Chrome browser for an optimal video‑player experience, ensuring smooth streaming of the live matches.
The tournament’s lineup boasts an impressive array of talent, including six‑time champion Michael van Gerwen and two‑time winner James Wade, both of whom bring a wealth of experience and a track record of success in high‑pressure situations. Welsh stars Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton, the latter having secured the title in 2020 and 2021 respectively, will also be in the mix, promising intense and entertaining encounters. Northern Irish number one Josh Rock, known for his steady rise through the ranks, and two‑time semi‑finalist Danny Noppert will be present, adding further depth to the competition. Returning to Leicester are Stephen Bunting and Wessel Nijman, both eager to make an impact after their previous appearances.
The first round match‑ups are as follows: 1. Luke Littler vs Luke Woodhouse 2.
Nathan Aspinall vs Kevin Doets 3. Danny Noppert vs Niko Springer 4.
Michael van Gerwen vs Ryan Joyce 5. Gerwyn Price vs Sebastian Bialecki 6. Ross Smith vs Cameron Menzies 7.
Jonny Clayton vs Krzysztof Ratajski 8. Wessel Nijman vs Rob Cross 9. Luke Humphries vs Dave Chisnall 10. Chris Dobey vs Jermaine Wattimena 11.
Josh Rock vs Niels Zonneveld 12. Gary Anderson vs Damon Heta 13.
Gian van Veen vs Dirk van Duijvenbode 14. Ryan Searle vs William O'Connor 15. James Wade vs Joe Cullen 16.
Stephen Bunting vs Andrew Gilding These pairings set the stage for a series of thrilling contests, each demanding precision, mental fortitude, and the ability to hit crucial doubles under pressure. The double‑start rule, which differentiates the World Grand Prix from other major darts events, often leads to unexpected turns and dramatic comebacks, as players must first hit a double to begin scoring and then finish each leg on another double. Throughout the week, spectators can expect a blend of seasoned champions looking to add another accolade to their collections and hungry newcomers eager to make a statement on one of darts’ biggest stages. The tournament will run until October 4, providing a full week of high‑octane darts action.
Viewers can tune in to Sky Sports for live coverage, and those who prefer streaming should ensure they are using the Chrome browser for the best video playback experience. Whether you are a longtime follower of the sport or a newcomer drawn by the excitement of the double‑start format, the World Grand Prix promises a captivating showcase of talent, strategy, and sheer competitive spirit.