Who Are the Top Players to Watch at the 2025/26 World Darts Championship?

As the 2025/26 World Darts Championship approaches, all eyes turn to Alexandra Palace in London, where the sport's top names will battle for one of darts’ most prestigious titles. With record-breaking prize money, global broadcast reach and packed crowds expected once again, this year’s tournament is set to showcase a mix of household names, rising stars and potential upsets. Here’s a look at the players to keep an eye on as the action unfolds.

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Michael Smith – The Former World Champion

Michael Smith, the 2023 champion, returns to Ally Pally with a point to prove after a quieter season. Known for his rapid scoring and ability to hit key finishes under pressure, Smith remains one of the most naturally talented players on the tour. His consistency in major tournaments and experience on the biggest stage make him a serious contender once again.

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Michael Van Gerwen – The Big-Stage Veteran

Never count out MVG. While 2025 hasn’t been his most dominant season statistically, van Gerwen has shown flashes of his former brilliance and remains one of the most dangerous players in any format. A three-time World Champion, he knows exactly how to manage the long format and high-pressure environment that comes with this event.

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Luke Humphries – The Player in Form

After a strong run of televised titles in 2025, Luke Humphries enters the World Darts Championship as one of the most in-form players. With calm composure and impressive averages across recent majors, Humphries has developed into a genuine title threat. His previous semi-final showing will give him confidence that he can go one better this time.

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Gerwyn Price – The Crowd Divider

Former champion Gerwyn Price often finds himself either loved or loathed by the crowd but his raw ability and mental toughness are undeniable. Despite battling with injuries earlier in the year, Price’s powerful scoring and intensity on stage always make him one to watch. If he finds rhythm early in the tournament, expect a deep run.

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Nathan Aspinall – A Gritty Competitor

Aspinall’s resilience and gritty playstyle have seen him return to top form in 2025. With a major title under his belt this season and strong televised performances, the Stockport man has all the tools to make another deep championship run. His ability to fight through tough matches makes him a dangerous opponent in the knockout format.

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Fallon Sherrock – A Familiar Face Returns

Fallon Sherrock’s historic run in 2019 made her a household name and she’s back in the mix for 2025/26. While results have been inconsistent, her return adds another storyline to the tournament. Sherrock has proven she can deliver on the big stage and if she finds early momentum, don’t rule out another memorable upset.

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Josh Rock – The Breakout Star

One of the brightest young talents in darts, Josh Rock continues to build on a strong debut season. With explosive scoring power and growing composure, Rock has shown he can mix it with the best. A few televised wins this year have further cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s next big stars.

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Peter Wright – Unpredictable but Capable

Two-time world champion Peter Wright has had a turbulent season, with equipment changes and inconsistency. However, Wright has repeatedly shown he can find form at the right time. If he settles on a setup and hits rhythm early, he’s more than capable of another fairytale run.

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Gary Anderson – A Surprise Package?

The Flying Scotsman has quietly returned to form in 2025, showing glimpses of his best across the Players Championship and ProTour events. With less media attention and pressure, Anderson could thrive as a dark horse. His experience and high scoring remain as sharp as ever.

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Dimitri Van den Bergh – Dangerous When Focused

Dimitri has had a mixed season but his ability to hit massive scoring runs and hold composure in long matches makes him a player to watch. If he finds his rhythm early in the event, the Belgian could cause problems for higher seeds.

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What to Expect from the 2025/26 World Darts Championship

This year’s tournament will feature 96 players and a prize pool of over £2.5 million. The expanded field brings more opportunities for upsets and breakthrough runs. Held at Alexandra Palace from mid-December through early January, the event includes festive crowds, dramatic walk-ons and one of the most electric atmospheres in sport.

PDC Chairman Eddie Hearn has already described this year’s field as "the most competitive in recent memory," with rankings tighter than ever. Expect fewer easy matches in early rounds and more last-leg deciders throughout the tournament. With fans returning in full force, players will need to be at their sharpest from the opening round.

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How to Attend with Core Events

Whether you're a lifelong darts fan or looking for a new experience, Core Events offers tailored World Darts Championship hospitality packages to make your trip seamless. From premium seating and VIP lounge access to curated itineraries for groups and corporate clients, we take care of the details so you can focus on the action.

Looking to experience the biggest tournament in darts? Speak to the Core Events team today to find out more about our hospitality packages and secure your place at Alexandra Palace this winter.

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