PDPA – PDPA

Template - Author: European Tour Update

The European Tour will return next weekend with the German Darts Championship in Hildesheim, which will end a six-month break since the Belgian Darts Championship had opened the season on the continent.

A further two £140,000 European Tour events will now also be held in Germany, taking the year’s total to four ahead of the European Championship at the end of October. The European Darts Grand Prix will be staged at the Glaspalast in Sindelfingen from October 16-18, featuring the field of players who had qualified for the year’s originally-planned third European Tour event.

The Sachsenarena in Riesa will then host the International Darts Open from October 23-25, which will feature the players who originally qualified for the year’s fourth European Tour event. Each tournament will be played in front of fans in Germany, adopting the relevant safety and social distancing regulations.

Tickets for the German Darts Championship are available through PDC Europe, with tickets for the European Darts Grand Prix and International Darts Open going on sale in the near future.

Due to the amended regulations, ticket bookings for the original 2020 dates in Sindelfingen and Riesa cannot remain valid. Fans with a booking will be issued with a voucher which can be exchanged for tickets for the new date and will be contacted by the PDC Europe Box Office.

Each PDC European Tour event will be streamed through PDCTV for all Subscribers worldwide, and available through bookmakers’ websites.

Following the completion of the International Darts Open, the top 32 players from the European Tour Order of Merit – comprised of prize money won across the four European Tour events – will progress to compete in the European Championship.

The field for each European Tour event will be finalised on the night before the tournament begins with players from the Associate Member Qualifier and Host Nation Qualifier.

The current fields for each event are listed below.

For the German Darts Championship, qualifiers Niels Zonneveld and Simon Stevenson have withdrawn, and two extra places will be awarded to the Host Nation Qualifier.

For the International Darts Open, qualifier Kyle Anderson has withdrawn and will be replaced by an additional Host Nation Qualifier.

ET2 – German Darts Championship
Halle 39, Hildesheim – September 25-27
Seeded Players
1. Michael van Gerwen
2. Ian White
3. Gerwyn Price
4. Peter Wright
5. Dave Chisnall
6. Krzysztof Ratajski
7. Daryl Gurney
8. Mensur Suljovic
9. James Wade
10. Glen Durrant
11. Joe Cullen
12. Nathan Aspinall
13. Jonny Clayton
14. Rob Cross
15. Adrian Lewis
16. Jermaine Wattimena

Host Nation Qualifiers – Automatic Entries: Gabriel Clemens, Max Hopp
TCH Qualifiers: Josh Payne, Adam Hunt, Jeffrey de Zwaan, Steve Lennon, Michael Smith, Darren Penhall, Jeff Smith, Mervyn King, Jason Lowe, Devon Petersen, Steffen Siepmann, William O’Connor, Alan Tabern, Ryan Murray, Scott Waites, Ron Meulenkamp, Chris Dobey, Steve Brown, Danny Noppert, Reece Robinson, Steve West, Richard North
PDC Nordic & Baltic Qualifier: Daniel Larsson
East Europe Qualifier: Boris Koltsov
Associate Member Qualifiers: 2x TBC
Host Nation Qualifiers: 4x TBC

ET3 – European Darts Grand Prix
Glaspalast, Sindelfingen – October 16-18
Seeded Players
1. Michael van Gerwen
2. Gerwyn Price
3. Ian White
4. Peter Wright
5. Krzysztof Ratajski
6. Mensur Suljovic
7. Daryl Gurney
8. Dave Chisnall
9. James Wade
10. Nathan Aspinall
11. Joe Cullen
12. Glen Durrant
13. Adrian Lewis
14. Jamie Hughes
15. Rob Cross
16. Michael Smith

Qualifiers
Host Nation Qualifiers – Automatic Entries: Gabriel Clemens, Max Hopp
TCH Qualifiers: Devon Petersen, Steve Lennon, Adam Hunt, Mervyn King, Jason Lowe, Steffen Siepmann, Jonathan Worsley, Darius Labanauskas, Jose De Sousa, William O’Connor, Derk Telnekes, John Henderson, Maik Kuivenhoven, Martijn Kleermaker, Harry Ward, Madars Razma, Scott Waites, Ryan Joyce, Damon Heta, Darren Webster, Vincent van der Voort, Luke Woodhouse, Chris Dobey, Kim Huybrechts
PDC Nordic & Baltic Qualifier: Mindaugas Barauskas
East Europe Qualifier: Pero Ljubic
Associate Member Qualifiers: 2x TBC
Host Nation Qualifiers: 2x TBC

ET4 – International Darts Open
Sachsenarena, Riesa – October 23-25
Seeded Players
1. Michael van Gerwen
2. Gerwyn Price
3. Ian White
4. Peter Wright
5. Krzysztof Ratajski
6. Mensur Suljovic
7. Daryl Gurney
8. Dave Chisnall
9. James Wade
10. Nathan Aspinall
11. Joe Cullen
12. Glen Durrant
13. Adrian Lewis
14. Jamie Hughes
15. Rob Cross
16. Michael Smith

Qualifiers
Host Nation Qualifiers – Automatic Entries: Gabriel Clemens, Max Hopp
TCH Qualifiers: Kai Fan Leung, Jamie Lewis, Andy Hamilton, Jason Lowe, Jesus Noguera, Madars Razma, Jelle Klaasen, Jose De Sousa, Martin Schindler, Stephen Bunting, Maik Kuivenhoven, Dirk van Duijvenbode, Ron Meulenkamp, Danny Noppert, Ross Smith, Brendan Dolan, Ryan Murray, Niels Zonneveld, Benito van de Pas, Martijn Kleermaker, Steve West, Toni Alcinas, Scott Baker
PDC Nordic & Baltic Qualifier: Andreas Harryson
East Europe Qualifier: Tytus Kanik
Associate Member Qualifiers: 2x TBC
Host Nation Qualifiers: 3x TBC

Template - Author: bwin World Series Finals.

Sensational Gerwyn Price claimed glory in the bwin World Series of Darts Finals with an outstanding day in Salzburg which culminated in an 11-9 comeback victory over Rob Cross in Sunday’s decider.

The Welshman scooped the £70,000 title and a third televised triumph of his career in style to cap a brilliant week on the continent.

Price had won two Players Championship events in midweek in Germany, and extended his winning streak to 17 matches as he followed up Saturday’s defeat of Vincent van der Voort with an brilliant display on Sunday.

He survived a missed match dart from Nathan Aspinall in the deciding leg of a thrilling quarter-final, before then defeating Peter Wright 11-6 in a semi-final of the highest quality.

World Champion Wright averaged 108 and produced six winning legs of between 11 and 13 darts, but Price proved too strong for the Scot as he moved into the final.

After Cross opened with a 144 finish, Price took out legs of 11, 12 and 13 darts – including a 128 checkout – as he moved 3-2 up, only to see the Hastings ace assume control with three straight legs.

Price responded in leg nine, but Cross took another three legs as a 110 checkout moved him 8-4 up with only four missed darts at a double.

The Welshman, though, kick-started his comeback with finishes of 74 and 79, and after Cross took out 100 it was Price who levelled by taking out 74 once again in leg 18.

Cross’ miss at the bullseye allowed Price to regain the lead – for the first time since leg five – by pinning a third-dart double five in leg 19, before hitting tops to complete a superb victory.

“I’m really happy and a bit relieved,” admitted Price. “From 8-4 down I’m proud of myself, to dig deep once again like I have in a few games over the last couple of weeks.

“Early on in the final I thought I was playing brilliant – I should have been at least 4-1 up but I knew that Rob was going to come out firing and when he banged in that 144 I knew I was in for a tough game.

“In the middle part of the game I was beating myself up and let Rob get in front, but I stuck in there until the end and got over the winning line.

“I never give up any more and I always believe that as long as there’s one leg to go I can still win, and I stuck in there until the end.

“I’m playing well, practising well and giving 100 percent every single time. Whoever’s going to beat me is going to have to play really well and take their chances, because if not then I will.

“I’m looking forward to the European Tour next week and the World Grand Prix after that, and obviously I’ve got one eye on the World Championship.

“I wouldn’t say I’m the best player in the world now, but I believe that my A-game is better than anybody else’s. That’s all that matters, I’m confident with my own game.”

Cross had been eliminated from the Premier League on Judgement Night less than a month ago, but bounced back from that disappointment in style to reach his first final since last October’s European Championship.

He followed up Saturday’s confidence-boosting whitewash of Steve Beaton with a 10-8 quarter-final win over Michael Smith to open his challenge on Sunday.

He then overcame James Wade 11-7 in the semi-finals, pulling clear from 7-6 to set up a repeat of the 2019 European Championship final with Price, only to this time end up on the losing side of the scoreline.

“It hurts,” admitted Cross, who will enjoy his 30th birthday on Monday.

“I lost to an in-form guy tonight and he’s been playing the darts of his life. Fair play to Gezzy for winning. Maybe with the lead I did have, I just got a little bit complacent.

“I’ve always got the game in the locker. I didn’t feel great when I played James and he never really got going, but it’s a step in the right direction.

“The darts are perfect for me and everything’s perfect, it’s just about Rob believing. I’m bitterly disappointed, but I’ll go back on the practice board, work harder and come back stronger.”

Wade had landed the tournament’s two maximum finishes, taking out 170 during his high-quality 10-8 quarter-final defeat of Glen Durrant before hitting the combination once more in his semi-final reverse to Cross.

Wright averaged over 100 in his quarter-final defeat of Daryl Gurney, but found himself on the end of a semi-final barrage from Price despite his own fine display in a memorable contest.

PDC action continues next weekend with the return of the European Tour, as Halle 39 in Hildesheim hosts the German Darts Championship as 48 players compete from September 25-27.

Sunday September 20th

(11.45 BST)

Quarter-Finals (19)
(102.46) Glen Durrant 9-10 James Wade (99.14)
(98.67) Rob Cross 10-8 Michael Smith (98.10)
(100.23) Peter Wright 10-5 Daryl Gurney (99.39)
(100.94) Gerwyn Price 10-9 Nathan Aspinall (103.37)

(19.15 BST)

Semi-Finals (21)
(108.10) Peter Wright 6-11 Gerwyn Price (102.48)
(87.58) James Wade 7-11 Rob Cross (85.28)

Final (21)
(96.21) Gerwyn Price 11-9 Rob Cross (94.22)

Prize Fund
Winner – £70,000
Runner-up – £30,000
Semi-finalists – £20,000
Quarter-finalists – £15,000
Second round – £7,5000
First round – £5,000

Template - Author: PDC Home Tour 2

Jonny Clayton, Jermaine Wattimena and Jeffrey de Zwaan progressed to the second phase of PDC Home Tour II as the tournament resumed with Group Seven on Monday.

The final four days of phase one in the home-broadcast event saw seven stars competing in a round-robin format, with the top three players progressing by right to the second stage. A tight group ended with a four-way tie on eight points, as Clayton, Wattimena, De Zwaan and Ron Meulenkamp won four games on the day.

Clayton held his nerve to secure top spot on leg difference with a 5-3 win over De Zwaan in their final game of the day, while Wattimena defeated William Borland by the same scoreline to progress. Meulenkamp, meanwhile, defeated Borland 5-2 in their final game but finished in fourth place on leg difference, but looks set to progress as one of the best fourth-placed players.

Welshman Nick Kenny won three of his games on the day, while Bunting and Borland claimed one victory apiece. The PDC Home Tour II continues on Tuesday, with the seven players including World Youth Champion Luke Humphries and four-time Women’s World Champion Lisa Ashton, alongside Martin Schindler, Jamie Hughes, Kai Fan Leung, Adrian Gray and Gary Blades.

The PDC Home Tour II will be broadcast through PDCTV and bookmakers’ websites worldwide, with play commencing from 0930 UK time on each day.

PDC Home Tour II
Phase One, Group Seven
Monday September 21
Ron Meulenkamp 5-2 Jeffrey de Zwaan
Jermaine Wattimena 5-0 Stephen Bunting
Jonny Clayton 5-2 Nick Kenny
Jeffrey de Zwaan 5-0 William Borland
Ron Meulenkamp 5-2 Nick Kenny
Jermaine Wattimena 5-3 Jonny Clayton
William Borland 5-4 Stephen Bunting
Jeffrey de Zwaan 5-1 Nick Kenny
Jermaine Wattimena 5-2 Ron Meulenkamp
Jonny Clayton 5-0 Stephen Bunting
Nick Kenny 5-0 William Borland
Jeffrey de Zwaan 5-4 Jermaine Wattimena
Stephen Bunting 5-3 Ron Meulenkamp
Jonny Clayton 5-1 William Borland
Nick Kenny 5-3 Jermaine Wattimena
Jeffrey de Zwaan 5-2 Stephen Bunting
Ron Meulenkamp 5-3 Jonny Clayton
Jermaine Wattimena 5-3 William Borland
Nick Kenny 5-2 Stephen Bunting
Jonny Clayton 5-3 Jeffrey de Zwaan
Ron Meulenkamp 5-2 William Borland

Group Eight: Lisa Ashton, Gary Blades, Adrian Gray, Jamie Hughes, Luke Humphries, Kai Fan Leung, Martin Schindler

Group Eight Fixtures
Tuesday September 22
Martin Schindler v Gary Blades
Jamie Hughes v Adrian Gray
Lisa Ashton v Luke Humphries
Kai Fan Leung v Martin Schindler
Gary Blades v Lisa Ashton
Luke Humphries v Jamie Hughes
Adrian Gray v Kai Fan Leung
Lisa Ashton v Martin Schindler
Jamie Hughes v Gary Blades
Adrian Gray v Luke Humphries
Kai Fan Leung v Lisa Ashton
Martin Schindler v Jamie Hughes
Gary Blades v Adrian Gray
Luke Humphries v Kai Fan Leung
Jamie Hughes v Lisa Ashton
Adrian Gray v Martin Schindler
Luke Humphries v Gary Blades
Kai Fan Leung v Jamie Hughes
Lisa Ashton v Adrian Gray
Martin Schindler v Luke Humphries
Gary Blades v Kai Fan Leung

Remaining PDC Home Tour II Schedule
Tuesday September 22 – Phase One, Group Eight
Wednesday September 23 – Phase One, Group Nine
Thursday September 24 – Phase One, Group Ten
Tuesday September 29 – Phase Two, Group One
Wednesday September 30 – Phase Two, Group Two
Monday October 5 – Phase Two, Group Three
Tuesday October 6 – Phase Two, Group Four
Wednesday October 7 – Phase Two, Group Five
Monday October 12 – Phase Three, Group One
Tuesday October 13 – Phase Three, Group Two
Wednesday October 14 – Phase Three, Group Three
Thursday October 15 – Championship Group Four

Phase One, Group One Players:

Andy Boulton, Mike De Decker, Adrian Gray, Joe Murnan, Geert Nentjes, David Pallett, Conan Whitehead. Qualifiers: Mike de Dekker, Andy Boulton, Joe Murnan

Phase One, Group Two Players:

Barrie Bates, Gary Blades, Matthew Edgar, Adam Hunt, Jamie Lewis, Alan Tabern, Carl Wilkinson. Qualifiers: Jamie Lewis, Adam Hunt, Alan Tabern.

Phase One, Group Three Players:

Lisa Ashton, Steve Brown, Nathan Derry, Krzysztof Kciuk, Martijn Kleermaker, Mickey Mansell, Kirk Shepherd. Qualifiers: Michael Mansell, Steve Brown, Kirk Shepherd.

Phase One, Group Four Players:

William Borland, Bradley Brooks, Ted Evetts, Andy Hamilton, Jamie Hughes, Harald Leitinger, James Wilson. Qualifiers: James Wilson, Andy Hamilton, Bradley Brooks.

Phase One, Group Five Players:

Damon Heta, Ryan Joyce, Marko Kantele, Daniel Larsson, Kai Fan Leung, John Michael, Devon Petersen. Qualifiers Marko Kantele, Daniel Larsson, Damon Heta.

Phase One, Group Six Players:

Gabriel Clemens, Ryan Meilke, Ron Meulenkamp, William O’Connor, Ross Smith, Vincent van der Meer, Luke Woodhouse. Qualifiers Ryan Meikle, Ross Smith, Gabriel Clemens.

Phase One, Group Seven Players:

Ron Meulenkamp, Jeffrey de Zwaan, Jermaine Wattimena, Stephen Bunting, Jonny Clayton, Nick Kenny, Jeffrey de Zwaan, William Borland. Qualifiers Jonny Clayton, Jermaine Wattimena, Jeffrey de Zwaan

Template - Author: Development Tour: Important Online Seminar

All Development Tour players are encouraged to attend an online seminar with PDPA partners Sporting Chance at 1900 BST on Monday 21 September.

The subject of the seminar will be: Understanding Gambling & Betting Integrity.

To access this webinar all you need to do is click the zoom link that was sent to you in an e-mail entitled Development Tour Zoom Invitation – Understanding Gambling & Betting Integrity.

If you can not locate this e-mail please e-mail info@pdpa.co.uk to be re-sent the link.

The event will last for up to 45 minutes, including an opportunity for questions, and will be hosted by Chris Murphy (PDPA Communications Manager, PDC Commentator & Gambling Education Facilitator for Sporting Chance). Chris has amassed a wealth of knowledge and expertise in this field, having worked in professional darts for almost a decade and through his own lived experience of gambling addiction.

He will be joined by Alex Mills (Head of Education, Communications & Athlete Engagement from Sporting Chance). Alex is experienced in educating professional sportspeople on mental health and emotional wellbeing issues, including addiction.

This webinar will cover:-

Understanding the current gambling landscape in society and sport
Understanding Unhealthy Gambling
Commonly Harmful Gambling Products
Potential Signs of Gambling Problems
Effects of Gambling Addiction
Betting Integrity in Darts
Other Potentially Unhealthy Behaviours
Help and Support

Attendance at this webinar is strongly encouraged.

Template - Author: Day 5 PDC Autumn Series

Gerwyn Price claimed his second Players Championship title in two days by defeating Krzysztof Ratajski in the Day Five final as the PDC Autumn Series drew to a close on Wednesday.

Having recovered from 7-4 down to defeat Devon Petersen in Tuesday’s dramatic final in Niedernhausen, Price wrapped up his 13th PDC title in simpler fashion against Ratajski with the Welshman leading throughout the contest.

The world number three averaged 104 across six victories in a highly impressive day which ensures his place at the top of the final Autumn Series Order of Merit. He also heads into this weekend’s bwin World Series of Darts Finals in Salzburg full of confidence following his double Players Championship success.

Devon Petersen hit his 4th 9 darter in his loss to Dimitri van den Bergh. Wednesday’s event featured 126 players, with Andy Hamilton withdrawing before the draw was made. As such, the number one seed, Gerwyn Price, receives a Bye in round one. Jamie Lewis also withdrew.

Final Table:

1 – Gerwyn Price £24,750
2 – Michael Van Gerwen £16,750
3 – Peter Wright £14,500
4 – Damon Heta £13,250
5 – Joe Cullen £11,000
6 – Mensur Suljovic £10,250
7 – Devon Petersen £10,000
8 – Krzysztof Ratajski £9,750

DAY FIVE

QUARTERS
Gerwyn Price 6-5 James Wade
Jose De Sousa 6-2 Michael van Gerwen
Brendan Dolan 6-3 Matt Clark
Simon Whitlock 0-6 Krzysztof Ratajski

SEMi FINALS
Gerwyn Price 7-3 Jose De Sousa
Brendan Dolan 4-7 Krzysztof Ratajski

FINAL
Gerwyn Price 8-5 Krzysztof Ratajski

TOP 8 AFTER ALL EVENTS:
1st-Gerwyn Price £24,250
2nd-Michael van Gerwen £16,750
3rd-
4th-
5th-
6th-
7th-
8th-

DAY FOUR

Gerwyn Price came back from 7-4 down to deny Devon Petersen a first PDC title on Day Four of the PDC Autumn Series on Tuesday.

Starring in his first PDC final in Niedernhausen, Petersen missed one dart at double 16 for an 8-5 win before going high with all three darts at double top in the following leg during an exciting final.

There were to be no further match darts for Petersen as Price ruthlessly punished the South African, closing out the deciding leg with a 14-dart break of throw to rack up his 12th PDC crown and a first since competitive action resumed in July.

James Wade hit his 10th PDC 9 Darter in his first round match against Robert Collins.

QUARTERS
Joe Cullen 6-3 Dirk Telnekes
Devon Petersen 6-2 Nathan Aspinall
Gerwyn Price 6-4 Mensur Suljovic
Ryan Searle 6-5 Ross Smith

SEMi FINALS
Joe Cullen 2-7 Devon Petersen
Gerwyn Price 7-2 Ryan Searle

FINAL
Devon Petersen 7-8 Gerwyn Price

DAY THREE

Michael van Gerwen returned to winning ways on Monday, romping his way to the title on Day Three of the PDC Autumn Series.

Having suffered a difficult end to his Unibet Premier League campaign as he missed out on the Play-Offs for the first time, Van Gerwen was back to his dominant best, dropping just 13 legs on the third day of action in Niedernhausen, Germany.

The world number one began the day with a 6-4 victory against former World Championship runner-up Andy Hamilton, before recording his first of four 100-plus averages in a 6-2 defeat of Reece Robinson.

Whitewash wins against fellow Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode and his Day Two conqueror Damon Heta were sandwiched either side of a 6-2 victory over Glen Durrant, his first against the Premier League table-topper.

A 7-4 triumph over Welshman Nick Kenny saw him progress to the final where he blew away Mensur Suljovic 8-1 to pocket the £10,000 prize.

QUARTERS
Luke Humphries 3-6 Mensur Suljovic
Danny Noppert 3-6 Ian White
Ross Smith 2-6 Nick Kenny
Damon Heta 0-6 Michael van Gerwen

SEMi FINALS
Mensur Suljovic 7-3 Ian White
Nick Kenny 4-7 Michael van Gerwen

FINAL
Mensur Suljovic 1-8 Michael van Gerwen

DAY TWO

Damon Heta clinched his first PDC ProTour title as he beat Joe Cullenn 8-4 in the final on Day Two of the PDC Autumn Series in Niedernhausen, Germany.

The Aussie, who made his name by sensationally winning the Brisbane Darts Masters as a qualifier in 2019, saw off the likes of Michael van Gerwen and newly crowned Betfred World Matchplay champion Dimitri Van den Bergh on his way to victory.

QUARTERS
Joe Cullen 6-5 Gerwyn Price
Nathan Aspinall 6-5 Ian White
Stephen Bunting 6-2 Simon Whitlock
Damon Heta 6-3 Martin Schindler

SEMi FINALS
Joe Cullen 7-6 Nathan Aspinall
Stephen Bunting 3-7 Damon Heta

FINAL
Joe Cullen 4-8 Damon Heta

DAY ONE

Peter Wright’s brilliant 2020 continued as he opened the PDC Autumn Series in Niedernhausen with a superb Day One victory, defeating Madars Razma in the final.

The World Champion showed his class in a brilliant day of darts as he claimed a second successive Players Championship title, following his win on the final day of July’s Summer Series. Wright averaged almost 100 in each of his first five matches, including wins over recent World Matchplay champion Dimitri Van den Bergh and Premier League leader Glen Durrant.

He had also seen off Callan Rydz, Graham Usher and Boris Krcmar before producing his highest average of the day at 109 in a thrilling semi-final with Michael van Gerwen. Carl Wilkinson hits a nine-darter in leg ten of his game with Joe Cullen – but loses the contest 6-5 in the decider.

QUARTERS
Devon Petersen 6-5 Jesus Noguera
Madars Razma 6-1 Jelle Klaasen
Peter Wright 6-0 Glen Durrant
Michael Van Gerwen 6-2 Krzysztof Ratajski

SEMi FINALS
Madars Razma 7-6 Devon Petersen
Peter Wright 7-6 Michael van Gerwen

FINAL
Madars Razma 1-8 Peter Wright

Template - Author: Harry Ward announces retirement at close of 2020

The 23 year old ‘Tour Card Holder’ also known as ‘Big H’ has announced he is to retire from PDC Darts at the conclusion of the 2020 season.

In his early BDO years he reached the final of the 2015 BDO World Youth Championships, losing 3–0 in the final to Colin Roelofs.

In January 2019, he won a two-year PDC Tour Card by right on the first day of the event, beating Mark McGeeney 5–2 in the final. Ward won his first PDC title at the sixteenth Players Championship of 2019, beating Germany’s Max Hopp 8–7 in the final at Barnsley Metrodome.

He had also qualified for the World Championship in 2019/20 beating Madars Razma 3-2, before losing out to Simon Whitlock 3-0 in the last 64. He also reached the last 64 of the UK Open twice and the Players Championship Finals.

We all at The PDPA wish him well in his future endeavours.

CLICK IMAGE BELOW for Facebook interview and announcement.

Template - Author: Social Media Abuse: An Open Letter to PDPA Members

Dear PDPA members,

We are aware that some of you have recently experienced some abuse on social media.

We are sorry that this is something you have had to encounter and want to do what we can to assist you if you feel you need any support or guidance.

While we do not have the power to eradicate online abuse or punish the perpetrators of it, it is our role to support our members in any way we can.

Firstly, we would like to remind you of our latest guidance on social media abuse (DARTS) which can be found here.

We are fully aware of the potential effects of experiencing online abuse and would therefore also like to remind you of the mental health and emotional wellbeing support that is available to you as a member of the PDPA.

Sporting Chance
PDPA members can access Sporting Chances services for support with any mental health or emotional wellbeing issue.

Confidential Helpline: 07780 00 88 77
E-mail: support@Sportingchanceclinic.com

The PDPA will also be hosting an online seminar with Sporting Chance on the subject of healthy and unhealthy social media use. Further details will be released in due course.

Thrive
PDPA members have free access to the Thrive Wellbeing App – an app that can help you manage your mental health, stress and anxiety with techniques to relax you in as little as five minutes.

To download the Thrive App go to the App Store (for apple devices) or Google Play (for android) and search for ‘Thrive: mental wellbeing’. Then set up a new account using the activation code PDPA2017.

PDPA
The PDPA are always available to provide further support and guidance to our members on any issue, including social media abuse. Please feel free to contact us at any time. We would also really appreciate any feedback on what more you think we could do to help.

If you have suffered social media abuse and want to report it to the PDPA, please e-mail info@pdpa.co.uk typing ‘SOCIAL MEDIA ABUSE’ in the subject field and include as much information as possible, such as the username of the perpetrator(s) & links or images of any abusive posts or messages.

We are also here to help with any integrity issues relating to Darts. If you have received messages or approaches relating to gambling, match-fixing or any other integrity issues please contact the PDPA or DRA immediately. Do not interact with the instigator and keep any evidence, such as the name/contact of the perpetrator(s) & links or images of any posts or messages.

Kind regards,
The PDPA

Template - Author: Unibet Premier League Night 16

Glen Durrant, Peter Wright, Gary Anderson and Nathan Aspinall will compete in the Unibet Premier League Play-Offs on a night where Michael van Gerwen failed to qualify for the first time.

The opening game of the night saw Gerwyn Price keep alive his hopes of a first Play-Off berth with a convincing 8-3 win over Gary Anderson. A repeat of the 2018 Grand Slam of Darts final saw Price average 107.7 as he took full advantage of a below-par Anderson, who appeared to be struggling throughout.

Michael van Gerwen crashed out of the competition, going down to a crushing 8-2 defeat to already-eliminated Daryl Gurney. Van Gerwen, who has topped the league phase every year since his 2013 debut, will not feature in the Play-Offs for the first time after a disappointing end do a difficult campaign for the world number one.

Heading into the game, Van Gerwen knew he needed at least a point to keep his top four hopes alive, but Gurney showed no mercy as he raced into a 6-0 lead. Van Gerwen was made to pay for his 11 missed double attempts and was unable to find anywhere near his best form to mount a comeback.

Gurney’s win over Van Gerwen meant Peter Wright was already assured of his place in the top four, but the World Champion ended his season with an 8-5 win over Michael Smith. After Wright took a 7-2 lead, Smith won three successive legs but any hopes of a comeback were quashed by Wright, who will feature in the Play-Offs for the first time since 2017.

Nathan Aspinall produced a scintillating display to qualify for the top 4 on his debut, an 8-2 win over the league winner, high scoring and incredible finishing including a 170 was a feature of his display, he now faces World Champion Peter Wright in the Semi Finals. Anderson faces Durrant from the O2 on 22nd October

Final Group Stage Fixture

Night 16 Saturday September 5th MK

Gerwyn Price 8-3 Gary Anderson
Daryl Gurney 8-2 Michael van Gerwen
Peter Wright 8-5 Michael Smith
Nathan Aspinall 8-2 Glen Durrant

Play Offs Thursday October 22nd O2

Semi Finals
Glen Durrant v Gary Anderson
Peter Wright v Nathan Aspinall

Final
Durrant/Anderson v Wright/Aspinall

Final Table

1 – Glen Durrant 21 (+19)
2 – Peter Wright 20 (+18)
3 – Nathan Aspinall 19 (+11)
4 – Gary Anderson 19 (+6)
5 – Gerwyn Price 17 (+15)
6 – Michael van Gerwen 17 (-4)
7 – Michael Smith 13 (-7)
8 – Daryl Gurney 11 (-15)
9 – Rob Cross 5 (-14) E

Template - Author: World Grand Prix moves to Ricoh Arena

The BoyleSports World Grand Prix will be held behind closed doors at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena, October 6th – 12th 2020.

The famous double-start tournament had been due to be held for a 20th time at Dublin’s Citywest Convention Centre later this year, with the venue having become a popular destination for darts fans since first hosting the World Grand Prix in 2001.

However, the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic mean that it is not possible for the World Grand Prix to be held in Dublin in 2020, as the event follows the World Matchplay and Premier League in being staged behind closed doors.

The World Grand Prix will now take place from October 6th – 12th at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, a venue which has previously hosted the Premier League as well as a number of PDC ProTour weekends.

“The BoyleSports World Grand Prix is one of the highlights of the PDC calendar and whilst we’re disappointed we will not be at the Citywest Convention Centre in 2020, we can now look forward to an exciting and entertaining event at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry,” said PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter.

“We saw an outstanding standard of play at the recent World Matchplay and are sure that will continue in the World Grand Prix, which remains a challenging and unique event due to the double-start format.

“The Citywest Convention Centre remains part of our plans for 2021 and beyond and we thank them for their support in exploring all options for the event to have taken place in Dublin this year.”

Play will commence with the first round split across two nights on October 6th – 7th with the second round taking place on October 8th – 9th. The quarter-finals will be held on Saturday October 10th, with the semi-finals on Sunday October 11th and the final on Monday October 12th.

Coverage will be shown on Sky Sports, as well as through the PDC’s international broadcast partners including RTL7 and DAZN and for PDCTV Rest of the World Subscribers.

2020 BoyleSports World Grand Prix

Ricoh Arena, Coventry

Tuesday October 6th (19.00 BST)
8x First Round

Wednesday October 7th (19.00 BST)
8x First Round

Thursday October 8th (19.00 BST)
4x Second Round

Friday October 9th (19.00 BST)
4x Second Round

Saturday October 10th (19.00 BST)
Quarter-Finals

Sunday October 11th (19.00 BST)
Semi-Finals

Monday October 12th (20.00 BST)
Final

Template - Author: Kyle McKinstry Statement

The PDPA are aware that Kyle McKinstry has admitted to a charge related to match-fixing in a Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) sanctioned event, unconnected with the Professional Darts Corporation.

The DRA are in the process of dealing with this case, which is considered to be serious. It was announced last week that McKinstry has been suspended from attending or competing in DRA sanctioned events until the conclusion of his DRA hearing.

McKinstry has admitted a charge of match fixing in a fixture against David Evans. There is no suggestion whatsoever of any wrongdoing by Evans. The PDPA is assisting all parties concerned, including McKinstry and will continue to offer support in line with its duties as an organisation.

Our primary purpose is to serve and support all of our members and we hope that McKinstry’s mistakes and any punishment he may receive will also act as a reminder of the severity of such an offence.

Members are reminded to engage with our educational activities, including the e-learning module on betting integrity and our annual seminars. We also recently released new social media guidance, which includes the advice to report any integrity issues to the relevant authority.

Any suspicious approaches should be reported to the DRA or players should contact the PDPA for assistance in such matters. The PDPA will be making no further comment on this case at this time but would like to take this opportunity to remind all members to remain vigilant, educated and safe in this area.

The PDPA

Template - Author: Grand Slam of Darts Criteria

The qualification structure for the 2020 Grand Slam of Darts has been confirmed ahead of November’s tournament.

The 32-player tournament traditionally features players from both the PDC and BDO systems competing across nine days in Wolverhampton.

PDC players primarily qualify by reaching the final of a televised PDC Premier Event during each year, with this year’s representatives being headlined by reigning Grand Slam champion Gerwen Price and World Champion Peter Wright.

UK Open and Players Championship Finals winner Michael van Gerwen and World Youth Champion Luke Humphries are joined by recent World Matchplay winner Dimitri Van den Bergh in securing Grand Slam spots.

2020 PDC Home Tour winner Nathan Aspinall and James Wade, the highest-placed non-qualified player from the PDC Summer Series Order of Merit, will also compete in the event, with further places going to players from the Autumn Series and Winter Series.

In addition, World Matchplay runner-up Gary Anderson, Masters finalist Michael Smith and World Youth Championship runner-up Adam Gawlas are also in line to compete in the Grand Slam.

Further places in the tournament will be on offer for the finalists of the Premier League, World Series of Darts Finals, World Grand Prix, European Championship and World Cup of Darts, as well as to one player from the Women’s Qualifier in October.

The reserve list, comprised of winners of European Tour and Players Championship events, currently includes Ryan Searle, Krzysztof Ratajski, Ian White and Ryan Joyce.

2020 BDO Champion Wayne Warren and 2020 BDO Women’s Champion Mikuru Suzuki will be invited to compete in the Grand Slam of Darts for a second successive year.

However, due to the lack of confirmed events within the BDO and elsewhere in amateur darts, there will be no further BDO invites or invitations to players from outside the PDC system in 2020.

After the automatic qualifying routes are concluded, eight places will be on offer at the PDC Tour Card Holder Qualifier.

The qualification system will be reviewed for 2021, including the position of invitations to non-PDC players.

2020 Grand Slam of Darts – Qualifying Structure
PDC Competitors
Qualifying Players: (invited in the following order up to a maximum of 22 players. Current provisional qualifiers in Bold)
2019/20 PDC World Champion; PETER WRIGHT – 1
2019 Grand Slam Champion; GERWYN PRICE – 2
2020 Premier League Champion;
2020 World Matchplay Champion; DIMITRI VAN DEN BERGH – 3
2020 World Grand Prix Champion;
2019 World Youth Champion; LUKE HUMPHRIES – 4
2020 Masters Champion; (Peter Wright)
2020 UK Open Champion; MICHAEL VAN GERWEN – 5
2020 European Champion;
2019 Players Champion; (Michael van Gerwen)
2020 World Series of Darts Finals Champion;
2020 World Cup winners;
2020 PDC Home Tour Champion: NATHAN ASPINALL – 6
2020 PDC Summer Series OOM Highest-Placed Player: JAMES WADE – 7
2020 PDC Autumn Series OOM Highest-Placed Player:
2020 PDC Winter Series OOM Highest-Placed Player:
2020 PDC Women’s Qualifier:
2019/20 PDC World Championship runner-up; (Michael van Gerwen)
2019 Grand Slam runner-up; (Peter Wright)
2020 Premier League runner-up;
2020 World Matchplay runner-up; GARY ANDERSON – 8
2020 World Grand Prix runner-up;
2019 World Youth Championship runner-up; ADAM GAWLAS – 9
2020 Masters runner-up; MICHAEL SMITH – 10
2020 UK Open runner-up; (Gerwyn Price)
2020 European Championship runner-up;
2019 Players Championship runner-up; (Gerwyn Price)
2020 World Series of Darts Finals runner-up;
2020 World Cup runners-up (2 players with highest individual taking preference if only one spot available);

This list can produce a maximum of 31 players. If it produces more than 22 players, they shall be taken in order as listed above and no further players shall qualify automatically. (CURRENTLY 10 QUALIFIED WITH 12 PLACES REMAINING)

If it produces fewer than 22 places then additional places shall be filled from the reserve list in the following order:
2020 European Tour winners (in Order of Merit order at Nov 9): (Gerwyn Price ET1)
2020 Players Championship winners (in Order of Merit order at Nov 9): (Gary Anderson PC1), (Nathan Aspinall PC2, PC7), RYAN SEARLE (PC3) , KRZYSZTOF RATAJSKI (PC4), (Peter Wright PC5, PC13), (Gerwyn Price PC6), IAN WHITE (PC8), (Michael van Gerwen PC9, PC11), RYAN JOYCE (PC10), (James Wade PC12)

Players shall be separated within the reserve list first by the number of Events in each category they have won and then by their position in the PDC main Order of Merit on the cut-off date.

Once 22 players are reached from the above criteria then the remaining ten places shall be filled with eight players from a PDC Full Member qualifier and two invited players from the BDO system.

BDO Invited Players
WAYNE WARREN – 2020 BDO Champion
MIKURU SUZUKI – 2020 BDO Women’s Champion

Template - Author: Update PDC Women’s Series and Grand Slam Qualifier

The PDC will stage a four-event Women’s Series in October 2020, giving players the opportunity to qualify for the William Hill World Darts Championship as well as the Grand Slam of Darts.

However, due to issues at the original venue in Cannock, the venue has had to be changed to the Barnsley, Metrodome CLICK HERE for the current event brief, which includes The Official PDPA Room Rates at the Holiday Inn, Barnsley.

Two places in the 2020/21 World Championship will be on offer for female players based on prize money won across the four events to be held on October 17-18 from the Metrodome in Barnsley.

The mini-tour will replace the two separate qualifying tournaments for the World Championship which have been staged over the past two years, offering £20,000 prize money in total across the four events.

Entry will be £25 per player per event, and the PDC Women’s Series will be open to all female players aged 16 and above. Ahead of the four PDC Women’s Series events, a separate, free-to-enter Grand Slam of Darts Qualifier will be staged on Friday October 16, offering one place in November’s tournament.

Lisa Ashton became the first woman to win a PDC Tour Card at Qualifying School earlier this year – amongst 16 female players competing in the event – while Fallon Sherrock created history and worldwide headlines with her run to the third round of the 2019/2020 World Championship, defeating Ted Evetts and Mensur Suljovic.

Anastasia Dobromyslova had joined Ashton in qualifying for the 2018/2019 World Championship, while Japan’s Mikuru Suzuki competed alongside Sherrock at Alexandra Palace last year. Ashton and Suzuki also played in the Grand Slam of Darts last year, and could secure another appearance in the event if they win through the qualifier on October 16.

Entry for the PDC Women’s Series will be available in due course via www.pdcplayers.com, with players who have not previously competed in PDC events needing to Register with the system first.

2020 PDC Women’s Series Barnsley

Friday October 16 – Grand Slam of Darts Qualifier
Saturday October 17 – PDC Women’s Series Events One & Two
Sunday October 18 – PDC Women’s Series Events Three & Four

Template - Author: PDPA Statement

PDPA associate member Wessel Nijman has issued the following statement in response to a Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) Disciplinary Committee referral:

I would like to place on public record my sincere regret and apology for the mistake I made in relation to betting and match-fixing. I was put under some pressure to lose a match and I agreed to do this. I have admitted the offence and take full responsibility for it and will accept my punishment.

I should have spoken to my management, the PDPA, DRA or police when I was put in this position and would advise any other player who finds themselves in a similar position to do that. Instead, I went along with it and made a stupid mistake that I am rightly being punished for.

It was a one-off error of judgement which I want to put behind me and do everything I can to put right. I have made private apologies to the people who I have let down, including my family who have backed me through my whole career, my management and sponsors, and I want to publicly apologise to them and everybody involved in darts, including fans.

My actions are a personal mistake made by me and not a reflection on the sport of darts. I want to move on, rebuild my career and reputation and am committed to helping to educate others through my own unfortunate experience so that this kind of offence can be prevented.

I will be making no further comment on this matter at this time.

Wessel Nijman

PDPA statement

The PDPA is disheartened to learn that two of our members have been referred to the Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) Disciplinary Committee for formal hearings for breaches of integrity rules in relation to betting and match-fixing in DRA sanctioned events, unconnected with the Professional Darts Corporation.

This is considered a serious matter and it is right and just that any player in breach of these rules is punished accordingly. Kyle McKinstry and Wessel Nijman have both been suspended from attending or competing in DRA sanctioned events until the conclusion of the hearings.

As McKinstry had indicated his intention to appeal this decision, the PDPA is unable to comment further on his ongoing case at this time. Nijman has accepted the charges, admitted the offence, expressed his regret and is fully cooperating with the DRA.

While the PDPA as an organisation condemns his actions, we also recognise his admission of guilt, his remorse, his willingness to cooperate and his desire to re-educate himself on matters of integrity.

We have provided Nijman with support, guidance, education and assistance and will continue to do so throughout the case and beyond.

The same support remains available to McKinstry. Our primary purpose is to serve and support all of our members and we hope that Nijman’s mistakes will also serve as a reminder of the severity of such an offence.

Any suspicious approaches should be reported to the DRA or players should contact the PDPA for assistance in such matters.

The PDPA will be making no further comment on these individual cases at this time but would like to take this opportunity to remind all members to remain vigilant, educated and safe in this area.

Template - Author: Nordic Masters moves to 2021

The 2020 Nordic Darts Masters has been cancelled and will now be staged in June 2021 at Forum Copenhagen.

The inaugural World Series of Darts event in Denmark, being staged in conjunction with Nordic Entertainment Group (NENT Group), had initially been planned for June 2020 before being moved to October.

However, the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic mean that the event cannot be held this year, and will take place from June 11-13 2021 as the world’s top players take on leading talent from across the Nordic & Baltic region.

The event forms part of next year’s World Series of Darts, which will begin in New York in early June with the US Darts Masters. August will then see the World Series visit Australia for a double-header in Townsville and Wollongong before crossing the Tasman Sea to Hamilton for the NZ Darts Masters.

“There had been a great deal of anticipation for the Nordic Darts Masters, and whilst the event cannot now proceed in 2020 we’re already looking forward to visiting Forum Copenhagen next June,” said PDC Chief Executive Matt Porter.

“The Nordic and Baltic region has enjoyed real growth in recent years and it has been encouraging to see the development of players, and the Nordic Darts Masters will be a great opportunity for them to show their talents on a global stage against the biggest names in the sport next June.

“This year has seen unprecedented disruption to our schedule, but we can now look forward with anticipation alongside our partners NENT Group to next June’s Nordic Darts Masters.”

Session times for the 2021 Nordic Darts Masters will be confirmed in due course. Fans with tickets for the 2020 Nordic Darts Masters will have their booking transferred to the equivalent session of the 2021 event. Fans wishing to request a refund would contact their point of purchase.

Template - Author: CT and DT events update

The Challenge Tour and Development Tour had each played one four-event weekend in 2020 before the coronavirus pandemic led to the suspension of tournaments in mid-March.

Following the return of competitive PDC action on the ProTour in July, plans have now been confirmed to conclude the secondary tours later this year. The Development Tour will resume with six £10,000 events to be held in Barnsley from September 25-27, which will then be followed by the early rounds of the PDC Unicorn World Youth Championship.

The PDC Unicorn World Youth Championship Final remains planned for Sunday November 29 to take place between the semi-finals and final of the Players Championship Finals in Minehead. The Challenge Tour will then conclude with six £10,000 events to be held from October 9-11.

The top two players from both the Challenge Tour and Development Tour Orders of Merit will receive a two-year PDC Tour Card for 2021/2022. In addition, the top two players from the Development Tour Order of Merit and highest ranked player on the Challenge Tour Order of Merit will receive a place in the 2020/2021 William Hill World Darts Championship.

Entries will be available through www.pdcplayers.com, costing £25 per event for the Development Tour and £50 per event for the Challenge Tour.

Players who have not previously competed on the PDC Unicorn Development Tour will need to Register with the system first. PDC Unicorn Development Tour events are open to players who were aged 23 or under on January 2 2020, and once their 16th birthday has passed.

PDC Unicorn Development Tour

September 25-28, Barnsley Metrodome
Friday September 25 – Events Five & Six
Saturday September 26 – Events Seven & Eight
Sunday September 27 – Events Nine & Ten
Monday September 28 – PDC Unicorn World Youth Championship L96

PDC Unicorn Challenge Tour

October 9-11, Barnsley Metrodome
Friday October 9 – Events Five & Six
Saturday October 10 – Events Seven & Eight
Sunday October 11 – Events Nine & Ten

Template - Author: Betfred World Matchplay

Dimitri van den Bergh sensationally won his first televised ranking title at the 2020 Betfred World Matchplay on Sunday, overcoming former champion Gary Anderson with a dominant 18-10 victory.

In his debut year at the event, the young Belgian claimed the Phil Taylor trophy in emphatic style at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes, averaging almost 100 and hitting four ton-plus finishes along the way.

He’s made his dreams come true…Dimitri Van den Bergh is the Betfred World Matchplay Champion!

But he’s not stopping there…he’s got the World Champion and World Number 1 titles in his sights and there’s no stopping him now.#WorldMatchplay #BetfredDarts | @OfficialPDC pic.twitter.com/bIyGhLyruI

— BETFRED (@Betfred) July 26, 2020

A nervy start to the final saw the pair struggling to score freely, with both players averaging just 87 going in to the first break, Van den Bergh leading 3-2.

The quality significantly increased during the second session, with both players adding a handful of points on to their averages. Five consecutive holds of throw saw the match level at 5-5, with both players settling in to the contest.

The 11th and 12th legs saw two moments of magic, as first Anderson pinned double five for a 130 finish to break, before Van den Bergh took out 170 with Anderson stuck on 82 to level at 6-6.

Both players missed darts to break and take control of the match in the following legs but it was Van den Bergh who took an 8-7 lead into the third interval. The 26-year-old, playing in his first ever televised ranking final, then took control of the match as he won four of the next five legs to open up a four leg advantage on Anderson.

Another incredible session for Van den Bergh saw him pull further clear of the two-time World Champion, starting with a stunning 124 finish on the bull, before another bullseye checkout in the following leg, this time 132.

Anderson was unable to get a foothold in the game and Van den Bergh went on to secure a 18-10 win just a few legs later, pocketing the £150,000 top prize. “My dreams have come true, what a beautiful trophy, I’m so happy,” said Van den Bergh, the first debut winner of the tournament since its inaugural staging in 1994.

“I have so much respect for Gary, to beat him is showing me how far I have come and now I know I can win, I can’t believe this.” The event, being played outside of Blackpool for the first time in its history, was also the first time the World Matchplay had been played without a crowd, and the new champion was keen to thank those involved in making it happen.

“The world is going through a very difficult time and the PDC, Barry Hearn and Matthew Porter have given me a chance to live my dreams when it hasn’t been possible for other, so thank you to them,” Van den Bergh continued. During lockdown, Van den Bergh was forced to spend a total of 11 weeks living with World Champion Peter Wright as he was unable to return home to Belgium.

The dancing ace spoke kindly of his hosts and credited them with playing a major part in his success. Van den Bergh added: “I spent a lot of time with Peter Wright over the lockdown and he has taught me so much, I’m so grateful to him and his family for everything they did for me during a difficult time.”

It didn’t go right from the first dart to last for Gary Anderson.

It’s a phone call the boys for Gary as he starts his preparation for the Premier League in 3 weeks time. #WorldMatchplay #BetfredDarts | @OfficialPDC pic.twitter.com/G4nRCqwr5w

— BETFRED (@Betfred) July 26, 2020

The run to the final saw Anderson defend a major chunk of the ranking money he won at the 2018 World Matchplay but conceded his opponent deserved the victory on the night. “He played well right from the off, I just wasn’t there tonight. All credit to Dimitri, he is a lovely lad and deserves his win tonight,” said the Scot.

The 49-year-old, known for his scoring power only hit one 180 during the match and couldn’t find the rhythm or form that won him so many titles before. “I’ve got a few weeks off now to sort a few things out, I had a few issues with my grip and darts dropping low but no excuses, he deserves it,” concluded the two-time Premier League champion.

Saturday July 25th (20.00)

Semi-Finals (33)
Gary Anderson 18-16 Michael Smith
Dimitri Van den Bergh 17-15 Glen Durrant

Sunday July 26th (20.30)

Final (35)
Dimitri Van den Bergh 18-10 Gary Anderson

FULL RESULTS:

FIRST ROUND
Michael van Gerwen 10-7 Brendan Dolan
Simon Whitlock 10-4 Ryan Joyce
Gary Anderson 10-5 Justin Pipe
James Wade 12-10 Keegan Brown
Gabriel Clemens 10-8 Rob Crpss
Krzysztof Ratajski 10-4 Jermaine Wattimena
Michael Smith 10-3 Jonny Clayton
Mensur Suljovic 12-10 Jamie Hughes
Peter Wright 10-8 Jose De Sousa
Glen Durrant 10-3 Jeffrey de Zwaan
Daryl Gurney 10-5 Ricky Evans
Vincent van der Voort 10-6 Dave Chisnall
Danny Noppert 10-7 Gerwyn Price
Adrian Lewis 11-9 Steve Beaton
Dimitri Van den Bergh 10-5 Nathan Aspinall
Joe Cullen 13-12 Ian White

SECOND ROUND
Simon Whitlock 11-4 Michael van Gerwen
Gary Anderson 11-8 James Wade
Krzysztof Ratajski 12-10 Gabriel Clemens
Michael Smith 14-12 Mensur Suljovic
Glen Durrant 11-8 Peter Wright
Vincent van der Voort 11-5 Daryl Gurney
Adrian Lewis 11-7 Danny Noppert
Dimitri Van den Bergh 11-9 Joe Cullen

QUARTER FINALS
Gary Anderson 16-12 Simon Whitlock
Michael Smith 16-13 Krzysztof Ratajski
Glen Durrant 18-16 Vincent van der Voort
Dimitri Van den Bergh 16-12 Adrian Lewis

PRIZE MONEY:

Winner – £150,000
Runner-Up – £70,000
Semi-Finalists – £50,000
Quarter-Finalists – £25,000
Second Round Losers – £15,000
First Round Losers – £10,000
Total – £700,000

Template - Author: Summer Series a Striking Success

The PDPA wish to thank the PDC, all behind-the-scenes staff, and all of the players involved for making the Summer Series such a success.

The five-day event at Milton Keynes’ Marshall Arena saw two tournament victories for Michael van Gerwen (pictured), one for James Wade, a maiden title for Ryan Joyce, and a final day triumph for World Champion Peter Wright – who topped the final Summer Series Order of Merit.

The feedback from our members has been overwhelmingly positive, as has the feedback on how the players conducted themselves and embraced the ‘bubble’ environment and social distancing guidelines.

Everyone involved helped to showcase Darts in an enormously positive way and are a credit to our sport.

Template - Author: DAY 5 PDC Summer Series

Peter Wright claimed his third ranking title of 2020 with victory in Sunday’s PDC Summer Series Day Five in Milton Keynes, edging out Gerwyn Price as Devon Petersen made a late claim for Betfred World Matchplay qualification.

A dramatic final event of the five days at the Marshall Arena saw the World Champion show his class to take the £10,000 title, defeating Price in a high-quality final. Wright defeated Jelle Klaasen, Darren Webster, Brendan Dolan, Nathan Aspinall on his way to the semi-finals, and averaged 109 in seeing off Wayne Jones 7-2.

After sharing the final’s opening two legs, Wright took four in a row to move 5-1 up, and through the Welshman hit back briefly it was the World Champion who closed out the win. Wright had also reached the Day One final in Milton Keynes, losing to Michael van Gerwen, but Sunday’s triumph saw him top the Summer Series Order of Merit with £22,000 prize money across the five days.

“I’m pleased to win and it’s great for me,” said Wright. “It could have been two wins, but I wanted to be top of the Summer Series Order of Merit and I knew I had to win today, so I’ve done that. “It’s ideal preparation for the World Matchplay and it’s good to be back playing.”

Price was in sensational form to enjoy his best run of the week in Milton Keynes, averaging over 100 in wins over William O’Connor, Darius Labanauskas, Jose De Sousa, James Wade and Devon Petersen. That included a 113 average against Labanauskas as well as his dramatic 7-6 semi-final win over Petersen.

Petersen was agonisingly short of claiming a spot in the final as he staged a late bid for Betfred World Matchplay qualification. The South African had to win Sunday’s event to force his way into the World Matchplay field, and defeated world number one Michael van Gerwen as well as Lisa Ashton, Christian Bunse, Daryl Gurney and John Henderson to reach the semi-finals for the second time this year.

He landed a 170 checkout in the last four against Price, but missed one dart at double 16 for victory as his hopes of glory on the day were shattered. Jones also won through to the semi-finals in his best run on the ProTour since May 2016, seeing off current Unibet Premier League leader Glen Durrant as well as Adrian Gray, Robbie Collins, Mike De Decker and Scott Baker.

Scottish ace Henderson was a quarter-finalist as he also saw a late bid to qualify for the World Matchplay fall narrowly short, with Petersen winning their shoot-out in the last eight. Saturday’s Day Four winner James Wade and former UK Open champion Nathan Aspinall also reached the quarter-finals alongside Scott Baker, who enjoyed his best run for over a year.

Darren Webster landed a nine-darter during his first round win over Kim Huybrechts, matching the achievement of Rob Cross 24 hours earlier in landing a perfect leg.

DAY 5 – PDC SUMMER SERIES