Luke Littler's unexpected loss has left the World Grand Prix in Leicester wide open, and fans are being asked to weigh in on who they think will lift the trophy. The tournament, which runs from September 28 to October 4, has always been a mixed bag for spectators – some adore its unique double‑start format, while others find it intimidating.
Littler, the rising star from Warrington, was hoping to become the first player in recent memory to defend his title at this event, but his early defeat has shattered those plans and turned the competition into a true free‑for‑all. The field this year consists of 32 competitors.
Half of those spots are filled by the top 16 players on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) Order of Merit, which is essentially the world ranking based on prize money earned over a two‑year period. The remaining 16 places are awarded to the highest‑ranked players on the Pro Tour Order of Merit who have not already qualified via the main ranking. This blend of established stars and hungry tour regulars ensures a balanced mix of experience and fresh talent, making the event unpredictable and exciting. With Littler out, several names have risen to the forefront of speculation.
The world number one, currently defending his title, still carries the weight of expectation. His consistency throughout the season, combined with a calm demeanor under pressure, makes him a natural favorite.
However, the double‑start rule – where a player must begin each leg with a double – can level the playing field, rewarding precision and nerves of steel. Players who excel at hitting doubles early often gain a psychological edge, and this nuance could see a dark horse emerge.
Another contender worth watching is the seasoned veteran who has amassed numerous televised titles over the past decade. His experience in high‑stakes environments, particularly in the double‑start format, gives him an advantage. He has a reputation for turning matches around in the final legs, and his recent form on the Pro Tour suggests he is hitting his stride at the right moment. The younger cohort also has a strong claim.
Several up‑and‑coming players have been making headlines with impressive averages and high‑checkout percentages. Their aggressive style, coupled with a fearless approach to the double‑start, could catch the more traditional players off‑guard. The tournament's week‑long schedule means stamina and consistency will be tested, and those who can maintain a high scoring rate while keeping their double finishes clean will likely thrive. Fans are invited to use the interactive prediction tool provided on the tournament’s official page.
By selecting a player they believe will emerge victorious, supporters can engage with the competition beyond simply watching the matches. The tool also tracks how predictions shift as the event progresses, offering insight into public sentiment and the impact of each round’s results. Beyond the Grand Prix itself, the darts calendar remains packed. Sky Sports continues to be the primary broadcaster for the sport, covering not only the World Grand Prix but also the Grand Slam of Darts (scheduled for November 14‑22) and the World Darts Championship (running from December 10 to January 3).
These events are streamed live via the NOW platform, allowing fans to watch without a long‑term contract. This accessibility has helped broaden darts’ audience, bringing new viewers into the fold and increasing the sport’s global reach. In summary, Littler’s early departure has transformed the World Grand Prix into a genuine open‑field contest.
Whether the eventual champion will be the disciplined world number one, a seasoned veteran with a knack for double‑starts, or a hungry newcomer hungry for a breakthrough, remains to be seen. The combination of a diverse field, the unique format, and the high stakes of a week‑long tournament ensures that every match will be closely contested. As the competition unfolds, keep an eye on the evolving leaderboard, watch for surprise upsets, and don’t forget to cast your prediction using the interactive tool. The excitement is only beginning, and the next darts legend could be just a few perfect doubles away from glory.