The World Grand Prix is set to unfold within the walls of Leicester's Mattioli Arena, kicking off on September 28 and broadcast live on Sky Sports. This tournament stands out in the darts calendar because it imposes a double‑start rule: every player must commence and conclude each leg by hitting a double or the bullseye, adding an extra layer of skill and strategy.
A total of 32 competitors will vie for the prestigious title. The field is composed of the top sixteen players from the PDC Werner Rankings Ladder, complemented by the highest‑ranked sixteen players on the ProTour Rankings who have not yet secured a spot. These thirty‑two darts specialists will battle for a dramatically increased prize fund, with the champion walking away with a £150,000 top prize – a significant rise that reflects the event’s growing stature. Defending champion Luke Littler will headline the lineup, returning to Leicester with the aim of defending the crown he captured last year.
Littler’s triumph was particularly memorable because he set a new record average during his final match, a feat that underscored his rising dominance in the sport. This year he will once again face the pressure of a double‑start format, which tests both precision and composure from the very first throw. Among the other marquee names, 2023 champion Luke Humphries is back in pursuit of a second World Grand Prix title. Humphries, known for his steady hand and clinical finishing, will be looking to add another major trophy to his growing résumé.
The Dutch sensation Gian van Veen, currently the number one player from the Netherlands, will also return to the arena where he previously fell short of the title after setting a record‑breaking average in a loss to Littler. Van Veen’s presence adds an intriguing narrative of redemption and the desire to convert his statistical brilliance into a championship win. The tournament will also feature six‑time Grand Prix champion Michael van Gerwen, whose experience and firepower make him a perpetual threat.
Two‑time winner James Wade will be on the boards as well, bringing his trademark consistency and strategic play to the double‑start format. Wales will be represented by Gerwyn Price, a former world champion renowned for his intensity, and Jonny Clayton, who lifted the title in 2020 and 2021 and remains a fan favourite for his charismatic presence and high scoring ability. Northern Ireland’s top‑ranked player Josh Rock, who has been making waves on the circuit, will also compete, as will Danny Noppert, a two‑time semi‑finalist who consistently reaches the latter stages of major events. Returning to Leicester are Stephen Bunting and Wessel Nijman, both of whom have previously enjoyed success on the PDC stage and will be eager to make deep runs.
The first round match‑ups have been drawn 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 fixtures set the stage for a series of high‑octane encounters, each demanding the precision of a double start. Fans can expect dramatic finishes, as the requirement to begin each leg on a double often leads to early pressure and unexpected upsets. The tournament will run through to October 4, offering a week of nonstop darts action.
Viewers are encouraged to watch the matches live on Sky Sports, where the coverage includes expert commentary, player interviews, and in‑depth analysis of the double‑start nuances that define the World Grand Prix. For the best viewing experience, the organizers recommend using the Chrome browser to access the video player, ensuring smooth streaming and accessibility features. Beyond the competition itself, the World Grand Prix serves as a showcase for the sport’s growing global appeal. The increased prize fund reflects the PDC’s commitment to rewarding excellence and attracting new talent.
Moreover, the double‑start format continues to differentiate the event from other major tournaments, highlighting the technical mastery required to excel at the highest level. As the dates approach, anticipation builds among players and fans alike.
Will Luke Littler be able to repeat his historic performance and retain his title? Can Luke Humphries add a second Grand Prix trophy to his cabinet? And will Gian van Veen finally convert his record‑setting average into a championship victory? The answers will unfold over the next week in Leicester, where every dart thrown could tip the balance between triumph and disappointment.
Stay tuned for daily updates, match highlights, and post‑match analysis as the World Grand Prix progresses. The combination of elite talent, a unique format, and a substantial prize pool promises a memorable chapter in the sport’s history.