The darts world is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025 Gambrinus Czech Darts Open prepares to ignite Prague’s PVA Expo from September 5–7, 2025. This 11th stop on the PDC European Tour promises a spectacle of precision and drama, with world-class players like Luke Littler, Luke Humphries, and Gerwyn Price learning their opening opponents in a star-studded draw. With a £175,000 prize fund and £30,000 for the winner, the stakes are high, and the stage is set for electrifying battles in the Czech capital.
Defending champion Luke Humphries, the world No. 1, kicks off his title defense in the second round against either Dirk van Duijvenbode or Cor Dekker. Humphries, who dominated the 2024 final with an 8-1 rout of Kim Huybrechts, is eager to cement his legacy in Prague, where he’s claimed victory twice in the tournament’s four-year history. “I felt good last year, but I know I need a spark to keep pushing,” Humphries said, reflecting on his relentless pursuit of excellence. His consistent brilliance on the European Tour makes him a formidable force, but the competition is fiercer than ever.
Teenage sensation Luke Littler, the world No. 2, enters as the red-hot favorite after a string of dominant performances, including wins at the World Matchplay, Australian Darts Masters, New Zealand Darts Masters, and Flanders Darts Trophy. The 18-year-old faces either Cameron Menzies or Ian White in the second round, a matchup that could test his composure early. “I’m happy with how I’m playing,” Littler said after his record-breaking 2024 Czech Darts Open, where he averaged an astonishing 116.51 against Damon Heta. His fearless finishing and meteoric rise have made him a fan favorite, and a strong showing in Prague could bring him closer to overtaking Humphries atop the world rankings.
Gerwyn Price, the fiery Welshman and world No. 7, will take on either Joe Cullen or Niko Springer in his opening match. Price, a former world champion, is known for his intensity and clinical precision, but his 2024 withdrawal due to a neck injury adds intrigue to his return. “I’m looking to make a statement,” Price has said in the past, and with a favorable draw, he’s poised to challenge for the title. His matchup promises fireworks, as both Cullen and Springer bring unpredictable flair to the oche.
The draw is packed with other marquee names. Michael van Gerwen, the three-time world champion, faces Mike De Decker or Ritchie Edhouse, while Stephen Bunting, ranked fourth, meets Daryl Gurney or Kevin Doets. Rob Cross, the 2018 world champion, has a tricky second-round clash against Raymond van Barneveld or Krzysztof Ratajski. James Wade, the fifth seed, will battle Nathan Aspinall or a host nation qualifier, and Peter Wright, the 13th seed, takes on Ricardo Pietreczko or Benjamin Pratnemer. The depth of talent ensures no match will be straightforward, with emerging stars and seasoned veterans vying for glory.
The Czech Darts Open’s three-day format, broadcast on PDC TV, Viaplay, and DAZN, begins with first-round action on Friday, September 5, featuring 16 qualifiers facing off. Saturday’s second round introduces the top seeds, with Humphries, Littler, and Price headlining the evening session. Sunday brings the third round, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final, culminating in a dramatic finale. The tournament’s £175,000 prize fund offers £12,000 for the runner-up, £8,500 for semi-finalists, £6,000 for quarter-finalists, £4,000 for third-round losers, £2,500 for second-round exits, and £1,250 for first-round defeats.
Littler’s recent dominance has shifted the spotlight, with Humphries acknowledging his rival’s prowess. “Luke’s obviously the best player in the world right now,” Humphries admitted after their 2024 semi-final clash, where he edged Littler 7-4 in a high-quality thriller. Yet Humphries’ own form, including a hat-trick of ton-plus averages in 2024, makes him a daunting opponent. Van Gerwen, meanwhile, seeks his second Euro Tour title of 2025, adding another layer of intrigue to a stacked field.
Prague has become a beloved stop on the European Tour, with its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans. The 2025 edition, featuring the world’s top four—Humphries, Littler, van Gerwen, and Bunting—promises to deliver unforgettable moments. Whether it’s Littler’s bid for another title, Humphries’ quest to defend his crown, or Price’s drive to reclaim his dominance, the Czech Darts Open is poised to showcase darts at its finest. As the oche heats up, fans worldwide will be glued to their screens, ready for a weekend of darting brilliance.
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