The World Grand Prix is set to unfold at Leicester's Mattioli Arena, kicking off on September 28 with live coverage on Sky Sports. This tournament stands out in the darts calendar because it mandates that every leg must both start and finish on a double or the bullseye, adding a distinctive layer of strategy and pressure for the competitors. A total of 32 players will vie for the prestigious title, comprising the top 16 performers on the PDC Werner Rankings Ladder and the next 16 highest‑ranked players from the ProTour Rankings who have not yet secured a spot.
These 32 qualifiers will battle it out for a newly increased top prize of £150,000, as well as the honour of being crowned World Grand Prix champion. Defending champion Luke Littler will headline the event, looking to replicate his success from the previous year. Littler’s presence adds an extra spark to the tournament, especially as he returns to the venue where he secured his first Grand Prix crown.
He will be joined by a field of the sport’s elite, each eager to claim the double‑start glory that only this competition can provide. Among the contenders is 2023 champion Luke Humphries, who is back to chase a second World Grand Prix title. Humphries has already demonstrated his ability to thrive under the unique double‑start format, and his experience will make him a formidable opponent.
Dutch number one Gian van Veen also returns to the Mattioli Arena, where last year he set a record average before falling to Littler in the final. Van Veen will be looking to improve on that performance and add the Grand Prix trophy to his growing list of achievements. The draw also features six‑time champion Michael van Gerwen, a player whose name is synonymous with darts excellence. Van Gerwen’s participation always raises the stakes, and his quest for yet another Grand Prix title will be closely watched.
Two‑time winner James Wade, another seasoned campaigner, will also be in the mix, bringing his trademark composure and tactical acumen to the double‑start format. Welsh stars Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton are also slated to compete.
Price, a former world champion, brings a fierce competitive edge, while Clayton, who lifted the Grand Prix trophy in 2020 and 2021, will be eager to add another title to his résumé. Their presence adds depth to a field already brimming with talent. Northern Irish number one Josh Rock and two‑time semi‑finalist Danny Noppert round out the list of high‑profile participants.
Both have demonstrated consistency on the ProTour and will be looking to make deep runs in Leicester. Returning players Stephen Bunting and Wessel Nijman will also be back on the Leicester stage, hoping to improve on their previous outings and make a statement in this demanding tournament. The first round match‑ups are as follows: 1. Luke Littler vs Luke Woodhouse 16.
Nathan Aspinall vs Kevin Doets 8. Danny Noppert vs Niko Springer 9.
Michael van Gerwen vs Ryan Joyce 4. Gerwyn Price vs Sebastian Bialecki 13. Ross Smith vs Cameron Menzies 5.
Jonny Clayton vs Krzysztof Ratajski 12. Wessel Nijman vs Rob Cross 2.
Luke Humphries vs Dave Chisnall 15. Chris Dobey vs Jermaine Wattimena 7. Josh Rock vs Niels Zonneveld 10.
Gary Anderson vs Damon Heta 3. Gian van Veen vs Dirk van Duijvenbode 14.
Ryan Searle vs William O'Connor 6. James Wade vs Joe Cullen 11. Stephen Bunting vs Andrew Gilding These pairings set the stage for a series of thrilling encounters, each match demanding precise double‑start execution. The format ensures that even the most seasoned players must maintain unwavering focus from the very first dart, as a missed double can quickly turn the tide.
Fans are encouraged to watch the tournament live on Sky Sports, where the coverage will run from September 28 through October 4. For the best viewing experience, the broadcaster recommends using the Chrome browser, which offers a more accessible video player and smoother streaming performance.
As the competition progresses, spectators can expect dramatic comebacks, tight finishes, and the occasional surprise upset—hallmarks of the World Grand Prix’s unique double‑start challenge. With a substantial prize fund, a prestigious title on the line, and the world’s top darts talent converging in Leicester, the event promises to be a highlight of the darts season.
Whether you are a longtime follower of the sport or a newcomer drawn by the excitement of the format, the World Grand Prix delivers high‑octane entertainment and showcases the very best of professional darts.