The Excitement of the World Grand Prix of Darts 2025
The World Grand Prix of Darts 2025 is in full swing this week at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester, bringing together 32 of the world’s top players battling it out for the prestigious title from October 6-12. This annual PDC tournament is not just another dart event; it features a unique double-in format that’s sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Reigning champion Mike De Decker is set to defend his title, facing fierce competition as the tournament progresses.
What is the Schedule?
The schedule for the tournament is packed with thrilling matches:
Round One: Monday, October 6 (6 PM)
- (9) Rob Cross vs Wessel Nijman
- (16) Martin Schindler vs Krzysztof Ratajski
- (8) Chris Dobey vs Cameron Menzies
- (5) James Wade vs Joe Cullen
- (13) Danny Noppert vs Jermaine Wattimena
- (1) Luke Humphries vs Nathan Aspinall
- (12) Gary Anderson vs Raymond van Barneveld
- (4) Stephen Bunting vs Niko Springer
Round One: Tuesday, October 7 (6 PM)
- (11) Damon Heta vs Luke Woodhouse
- (14) Ross Smith vs Daryl Gurney
- (6) Jonny Clayton vs Andrew Gilding
- (7) Gerwyn Price vs Ryan Searle
- (2) Luke Littler vs Gian van Veen
- (3) Michael van Gerwen vs Dirk van Duijvenbode
- (15) Peter Wright vs Mike De Decker
- (10) Josh Rock vs Ryan Joyce
Wednesday, October 8 (7 PM)
- 4x Second Round matches
Thursday, October 9 (7 PM)
- 4x Second Round matches
Friday, October 10 (7 PM)
- Quarter-Finals
Saturday, October 11 (8 PM)
- Semi-Finals
Sunday, October 12 (8 PM)
- Final
What is the Format?
The World Grand Prix is an annual PDC tournament that has been around since 1998, making it a staple in the darting calendar. This event is unique, as it is the only double-start tournament in the PDC circuit. Players must start and finish on a double (or bullseye), meaning they can only start scoring points after hitting a double.
Each match is played in a straight knockout format with a set-play structure. Each set is contested over the best of five legs, ramping up the intensity as players vie for every point and every leg.
How Can I Watch?
You won’t want to miss a moment of the action! Every session of the World Grand Prix will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. For all the matches from Monday to Saturday, you can tune into Sky Sports+, while the grand final on Sunday will be aired on Sky Sports Main Event.
For those who prefer watching on the go, Download the Sky Sports App to stream every dart live, follow the live blog, watch highlights, and get in-depth analysis from Sky Sports experts. Don’t have Sky? Get instant access with NOW, with the option to cancel any time.
Has There Been a Nine-Darter?
The quest for excellence in darts often leads to the coveted nine-dart finish. Brendan Dolan was the first player to achieve this feat at the World Grand Prix in 2011. He made darts history by hitting double 20, followed by six treble 20s, treble 17, and, finally, a bullseye, completing the perfect leg.
In a stunning display of talent, both James Wade and Robert Thornton matched this achievement in their second-round clash in 2014, further cementing the event’s legacy as a battleground for history-making moments.
Who are the Previous Winners?
The competition at the World Grand Prix has been fierce over the years, with legendary players leaving their mark on the tournament. Phil Taylor stands as the most successful player in the tournament’s history, having clinched 11 titles before retiring in 2017.
Recent winners include Michael van Gerwen, who won his sixth title in 2022, and Luke Humphries, who claimed victory in 2023. Last year’s champion, Mike De Decker, is eager to defend his title this week. Other notable winners include Daryl Gurney (2017), Robert Thornton (2015), and James Wade (2010 and 2007).
What is the Prize Money?
The stakes are high at the World Grand Prix, with a staggering total prize pot of £600,000 up for grabs. The winner will take home a whopping £120,000, while the runner-up will pocket £60,000. Semi-finalists will earn £40,000 each, quarter-finalists will receive £25,000, and those making it to the last 16 will get £15,000. Even first-round exits are rewarded with a £7,500 payday.
Fans can look forward to even more substantial rewards in 2026, as the prize money is set to increase to £750,000, with the winner taking home £150,000.
What Event is Next on Sky Sports?
Following the excitement of the World Grand Prix, darts fans can look forward to the Grand Slam of Darts, which will be live on Sky Sports from Wolverhampton from November 8-16. And the ultimate showdown, the World Darts Championship, will take place from December 11 to January 3 at Alexandra Palace.
Check in throughout the week and catch every throw live, because this is a darts event you won’t want to miss!
