The 2025 PDC World Darts Championship promises high drama and potential history-making moments, particularly with the possibility of a thrilling encounter between teenage sensation Luke Littler and trailblazing female player Fallon Sherrock. The tournament, which kicks off on December 15th at London’s iconic Alexandra Palace, is set to captivate fans with a mix of established champions, rising stars, and groundbreaking firsts.
A Stage Set for History
At just 17 years old, Luke Littler has already established himself as one of the brightest young talents in darts. His journey to the top has been nothing short of meteoric, having finished as runner-up in January’s World Championship final to Luke Humphries. Littler’s performance in that tournament captured the imagination of the darts world, and he has continued to impress throughout his first season as a professional, amassing an astonishing 10 titles. His potential second-round clash with Fallon Sherrock—if she overcomes Ryan Meikle in the opening round—adds another layer of intrigue to the event.
Sherrock, known as the “Queen of the Palace,” made history five years ago when she became the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship. Her triumphs over Ted Evetts and Mensur Suljovic in 2019 broke barriers and elevated her to global stardom. A victory over Meikle would set up a high-stakes showdown with Littler, a match that would not only be a battle of skill but also a moment of symbolic significance for the sport.
Key Contenders and Defending Champions
The draw for the tournament has set up several tantalizing potential matchups. Luke Humphries, the reigning world champion and top seed, will begin his title defense against either Thibault Tricole or Joe Comito. Humphries, who recently defeated Littler in the Players Championship final, is in top form and eager to solidify his dominance. His rivalry with Littler has become one of the most compelling storylines in darts, characterized by mutual respect and fierce competition.
Reflecting on their potential semi-final clash, Littler remarked, “I’m sure we’ll be up for it. We have three or four matches to win before that. We bring the best out of each other—we always play well.” Humphries echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact of their rivalry on the sport. “It is good for the sport—it is a friendly rivalry when we play each other.”
Second seed Michael Smith, the 2023 world champion, faces a challenging path as well. He will open his campaign against either Kevin Doets or Noa-Lynn van Leuven. Van Leuven’s presence marks another historic milestone as the first transgender woman to qualify for the PDC World Championship, further underscoring the tournament’s evolving inclusivity. Smith, known for his resilience and competitive spirit, will need to be at his best to navigate this tricky draw.
Veterans and Former Champions in the Mix
The tournament also features a host of former champions and seasoned veterans looking to reclaim glory. Three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen, a perennial favorite, is set to face the winner of the James Hurrell versus Jim Long match. Van Gerwen’s path is fraught with potential challenges, including a possible third-round clash with two-time champion Gary Anderson. Anderson, who faces either Jeffrey de Graaf or Rashad Sweeting in his opening match, remains a formidable force despite recent struggles.
Peter Wright, another two-time world champion, is set to play Wesley Plaisier or Ryusei Azemoto in the second round. Known for his flamboyant persona and unpredictable form, Wright is always a crowd favorite and capable of deep runs.
The Road to Glory: Format and Schedule
The top 32 seeds, including Littler, Humphries, and Smith, will enter the tournament in the second round, while the unseeded players battle it out in the first round from December 15th to 20th. Each day of the first-round action will feature at least one second-round match, ensuring high-stakes drama right from the start.
After a brief Christmas break, the tournament resumes with third-round matches starting on December 27th. The intensity ramps up further with the quarter-finals on New Year’s Day, the semi-finals on January 2nd, and the grand finale on January 3rd, 2025. The stakes are enormous, with the winner set to claim darts’ biggest prize: £500,000. The runner-up will receive £200,000, highlighting the financial and professional significance of this championship.
Potential Third-Round Clashes and Beyond
If the seeds progress as expected, the tournament could deliver several blockbuster third-round clashes. Humphries is projected to meet Raymond van Barneveld, a five-time world champion and darts legend. Van Barneveld, who will first need to overcome either Nick Kenny or Stowe Buntz, remains a formidable presence on the big stage.
Michael van Gerwen could face a rejuvenated Gary Anderson in another potential third-round classic. Their rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in darts history, and another chapter at Alexandra Palace would be a fitting continuation.
Rising Stars and Dark Horses
Beyond the marquee names, the tournament is also a platform for emerging talents and dark horses. Players like Josh Rock, Nathan Aspinall, and Martin Schindler have the potential to upset higher seeds and make deep runs. Rock, in particular, has been tipped as a future world champion, and his potential clash with Chris Dobey in the third round could be a highlight.
Conclusion: A Tournament to Remember
The 2025 PDC World Darts Championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and historic editions yet. With storylines ranging from Littler’s quest for his first world title to Sherrock’s potential return to glory and Van Leuven’s groundbreaking participation, the tournament is a testament to the evolving landscape of darts. As the world’s best players converge on Alexandra Palace, fans can expect high drama, unforgettable moments, and possibly, the crowning of a new legend.