PDC European Tour
The PDC European Tour is a series of professional darts tournaments organised by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), featuring 48 players in each three-day event held across multiple European countries from March to October.[1][2] Introduced in 2012 as part of the PDC's expansion into continental Europe, the tour began with five events and has since grown significantly, reaching 13 tournaments annually from 2018 to 2024 before expanding to a record 14 events in 2025 and 15 in 2026.[3][4][2] The inaugural event, the 2012 Austrian Darts Open, was won by Justin Pipe, and by April 2023, the tour had hosted its 100th tournament, with 32 different winners as of April 2023.[4] Each 2025 event offers a £175,000 prize fund, with rankings based on performances contributing to the overall PDC Order of Merit, ProTour Order of Merit, and dedicated European Tour Order of Merit, the top 32 of which qualify for the annual European Championship.[5][6] The 2025 schedule spans seven nations—Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Switzerland—with seven events in Germany alone, showcasing both established PDC stars and emerging talent from the continent.[2][7] Qualification for each tournament includes the top 16 players from the PDC Order of Merit receiving automatic entry and a bye to the second round, joined by the top 16 non-qualified players from the ProTour Order of Merit at the entry deadline, 10 qualifiers from a dedicated PDC Tour Card Holder event, four from the host nation's qualifier, one from the Nordic & Baltic region, and one from East Europe.[5] This format, updated in 2024 to enhance accessibility for mid-tier professionals, ensures a mix of elite competition and regional representation while maintaining the tour's status as a key component of the PDC's Premier Event circuit.[5]History
Establishment and Early Years
The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) launched the European Tour in 2012 as part of its strategy to expand the sport beyond the United Kingdom and foster growth in continental Europe by providing opportunities for leading professionals and emerging talents to compete at a high level.[3][8] This initiative replaced previous non-televised Players Championship events held on the continent with more prominent staged tournaments, aiming to build international interest and infrastructure for darts.[9] The inaugural 2012 season consisted of five events, excluding UK Open qualifiers, held across Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden.[8] These included the Austrian Darts Open in Vienna, the Dutch Darts Masters in Nuland, the German Darts Championship in Berlin, the European Darts Open in Düsseldorf, and the Scandinavian Darts Open in Stockholm (later renamed).[10][11][12] Each tournament featured 64 players and offered a minimum prize fund of £75,000, with £15,000 to the winner, emphasizing competitive fields over four days from Thursday to Sunday.[8][13][12] Player entry was dominated by established PDC professionals, with the top 32 from the PDC Order of Merit receiving automatic qualification, while the remaining spots were filled through UK, European, and host nation qualifiers.[14][11] Early challenges included limited venue options, with two of the five events hosted in Germany and reliance on major PDC stars—primarily British—to drive participation and attendance in nascent European markets. This structure highlighted the tour's initial focus on leveraging PDC's core talent base to establish a foothold abroad.Expansion and Challenges
The PDC European Tour experienced significant growth in the mid-2010s, expanding from nine events in 2015 to ten in 2016 through the addition of the Gibraltar Darts Trophy, alongside established fixtures in countries like Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands.[15] This increase allowed for greater participation opportunities for PDC Tour Card holders and enhanced the tour's visibility across Europe.[15] By 2019, the tour reached its peak with 13 events, reflecting a broader geographical spread that included new or expanded stops in the Czech Republic, Denmark, and Gibraltar, in addition to traditional hosts like Germany and Austria.[16] The diverse locations fostered stronger international engagement and contributed to higher prize funds, with each event offering £140,000.[16] The outbreak of COVID-19 drastically curtailed the tour's schedule, limiting it to just four events in 2020—held in Germany and Gibraltar amid strict health protocols and postponements of several planned tournaments.[17] In 2021, operations were further reduced to two events: the Hungarian Darts Trophy in Budapest and the Gibraltar Darts Trophy, as ongoing pandemic restrictions prevented broader travel and hosting.[18] The tour rebounded strongly in 2022, restoring the full complement of 13 events across multiple European nations and introducing comprehensive streaming coverage on PDCTV to reach global audiences without reliance on traditional broadcasters.[19] This recovery not only revived competitive momentum but also aligned with qualification pathways for major events like the European Championship, where top European Tour performers have earned automatic entry since 2016.[19]Recent Developments
In 2023, the PDC European Tour saw a significant boost in prize money, with each of the 13 events offering a total fund of £175,000—an increase of £35,000 from the previous £140,000 per tournament—with £30,000 awarded to the winner.[20] This enhancement supported a stable schedule following the resumption of tournaments like the Czech Darts Open, which debuted in 2019 and became a fixture again by 2023 after a COVID-related hiatus, contributing to the consistent 13-event format that persisted through 2024 across multiple European countries.[21][22] The tour expanded further in 2025 to 14 events, introducing the Swiss Darts Trophy in Basel, marking Switzerland's entry into the series and elevating the overall projected prize fund to over £2.45 million across the season.[23][24] The 2025 season concluded in October, with [notable outcome if available, e.g., the Swiss Darts Trophy won by X]. This growth reflects the tour's integration within the broader PDC Pro Tour structure, enhancing opportunities for players to accumulate ranking points. Post-COVID recovery has been marked by enhanced streaming accessibility and rising attendance at European Tour events, with PDCTV providing live coverage to global subscribers and partners like Sky Sports reporting incredible viewership growth.[25] Record crowds, including over 30,000 tickets sold for the 2024 European Championship derived from tour performances, underscore the renewed fan engagement.[26]Format and Qualification
Tournament Format
The PDC European Tour events feature a 48-player main draw structured as a single-elimination tournament. For the 2025 season, the top 16 players on the PDC Order of Merit receive a bye into the second round (last 32), while the first round consists of 16 matches pitting the next 16 players on the Pro Tour Order of Merit against 16 qualifiers drawn from Tour Card holders, host nation entries, and regional qualifiers.[27] The draw for the first round uses two pots to ensure separation between pre-qualified Pro Tour players and other qualifiers, promoting competitive balance.[27] Subsequent rounds proceed as straight knockouts: the second round (last 32), third round (last 16), and quarter-finals, followed by semi-finals and the final. Matches are played in a legs format under standard 501 rules with double-out finishes, adhering to the Darts Regulation Authority guidelines. All games up to and including the quarter-finals are the best of 11 legs, the semi-finals are the best of 13 legs, and the final is the best of 15 legs.[28][29] Each European Tour event utilizes a single dartboard setup in front of a live audience, creating an intimate atmosphere distinct from multi-board formats in other PDC series. These tournaments are not broadcast on traditional television but are streamed live exclusively on PDCTV for subscribers, with additional coverage available through select bookmakers and regional partners like Viaplay in Nordic and Baltic countries.[1] This streaming model ensures global accessibility while emphasizing the in-person event experience.[30]Player Entry and Qualification
The PDC European Tour events consist of 48-player fields, with entry reserved exclusively for players holding a PDC Tour Card, which grants access to the professional circuit's ranking tournaments. The top 16 players on the two-year PDC Order of Merit secure automatic qualification and are seeded directly into the second round, benefiting from a bye in the opening stage. The subsequent 16 places are allocated to the leading players on the one-year Pro Tour Order of Merit, comprising earnings from Players Championship and European Tour events within the calendar year, with these players entering in the first round.[31][32] The remaining 16 spots are determined through dedicated qualifiers designed to promote broader participation. Specifically, ten places come from the Tour Card Holder Qualifier (TCHQ), a pre-event tournament open to all Tour Card holders not already qualified via the rankings; four from the host nation qualifier; one from the Nordic & Baltic qualifier; and one from the East Europe qualifier. These include dedicated events for host nations like Germany, allowing local and regional talent to compete. These qualifiers ensure representation from the host country and surrounding regions, fostering international diversity within the PDC's European-focused series.[33][34][35] Although European Tour events are not part of the PDC's primary televised majors, prize money earned contributes fully to both the main PDC Order of Merit and the separate European Tour Order of Merit rankings, influencing seeding for subsequent events and qualification for the European Championship. This structure balances elite competition with opportunities for emerging players, as demonstrated by breakthroughs from host nation qualifiers in past tournaments.[36]Logistics
Venues and Locations
The PDC European Tour features events hosted across multiple countries in continental Europe, with Germany serving as the primary hub, accommodating the majority of tournaments such as seven out of 14 in the 2025 season.[2] Other host nations include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Hungary, Netherlands, and Switzerland, reflecting the tour's emphasis on broadening darts' appeal throughout the continent.[2] In recent expansions, events have also ventured to locations like Antwerp in Belgium's Flanders region for the Flanders Darts Trophy and Kiel on Germany's Baltic Sea coast for the Baltic Sea Darts Open, enhancing regional diversity.[37] Notable venues exemplify the tour's use of mid-sized indoor arenas suited to professional darts, often with capacities supporting intimate yet energetic atmospheres. For instance, the Ostermann-Arena in Leverkusen, Germany, hosts the European Darts Open and can accommodate up to 3,500 spectators.[38] Similarly, the Premstättner Halle in Graz, Austria, serves as the site for the Austrian Darts Open, while the PVA Expo Praha in Prague, Czech Republic, welcomes the Czech Darts Open, both drawing dedicated local and international crowds.[39][40] The Wunderino Arena in Kiel, Germany, further highlights coastal hosting for the Baltic Sea Darts Open, with its setup optimized for three-day weekend formats. Since its launch in 2012 with five inaugural events, the European Tour has evolved to prioritize strictly continental locations, expanding steadily to 14 tournaments by 2025 to foster growth outside the UK-dominated Pro Tour circuit.[2] This progression has shifted focus from initial concentrations in Germany and neighboring countries to a wider geographical footprint, incorporating emerging markets like Hungary and a second event in Belgium.[2] Logistically, the tour schedules its events over three-day weekends spanning late winter to autumn, typically from March through October, to align with player availability and sidestep conflicts with the PDC's World Series of Darts in other regions.[2] This timing supports efficient travel across Europe, with venues selected for accessibility via major airports and rail networks, ensuring broad participation from the PDC's ranked professionals.[41]Prize Money
The PDC European Tour features a standardized prize money distribution across its events, reflecting the tour's growth in financial investment. Since 2023, each tournament has offered a total prize fund of £175,000, distributed among the 48 participants based on their finishing positions. This structure ensures that even early-round exits provide meaningful earnings, while rewarding deeper runs substantially. The breakdown is as follows:| Position | Number of Players | Prize Money per Player |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | 1 | £30,000 |
| Runner-up | 1 | £12,000 |
| Losing semi-finalists | 2 | £8,500 |
| Losing quarter-finalists | 4 | £6,000 |
| Third round losers | 8 | £4,000 |
| Second round losers | 16 | £2,500 |
| First round losers | 16 | £1,250 |
Active Tournaments
Austrian Darts Open
The Austrian Darts Open joined the PDC European Tour in 2022 as the successor to the Austrian Darts Championship, which had been held in 2019 before a pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[47] The tournament debuted from April 29 to May 1 in Premstätten, Austria, marking the tour's expansion in Central Europe with Austria as the host nation beyond traditional German venues.[48] Since its return, the event has been staged at the Steiermarkhalle in Premstätten, a multi-purpose arena near Graz with a capacity of 2,130 spectators.[49] This fixed location has hosted all four editions through 2025, providing a consistent setting for the 48-player field competing for £175,000 in prize money, with £30,000 awarded to the champion.[39] The venue's central European positioning underscores the tournament's role in broadening the tour's footprint in the region. Michael van Gerwen claimed the inaugural 2022 title with an 8–5 victory over Danny Noppert in the final, securing his fourth overall win in the Austrian event and contributing to his record of multiple European Tour successes.[48] The following editions saw diverse winners emerge:| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Jonny Clayton | 8–6 | Josh Rock |
| 2024 | Luke Littler | 8–4 | Joe Cullen |
| 2025 | Martin Schindler | 8–4 | Ross Smith |
German Darts Championship
The German Darts Championship is a key event on the PDC European Tour, debuting in 2012 as one of five inaugural tournaments in the series designed to expand professional darts across Europe. Organized by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), it has been staged annually thereafter, with exceptions during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022 when travel restrictions and health protocols halted proceedings, leading to 11 editions completed by 2025. The event underscores Germany's prominent role in hosting PDC continental competitions, drawing strong local support and contributing to the tour's growth in player participation and prize funds, which rose from £78,900 in 2012 to £175,000 by 2025.[3][53] The inaugural 2012 edition took place at the Tempodrom in Berlin, marking the tournament's entry into the European Tour format with a 64-player field and a £15,000 top prize. From 2013 onward, the event shifted to the Halle 39 in Hildesheim, Lower Saxony—a converted aircraft hangar turned multi-purpose venue with a capacity of approximately 6,000, which has hosted the majority of subsequent stagings and become synonymous with the championship's electric atmosphere. While primarily fixed in Hildesheim since its relocation, the tournament has occasionally rotated to other sites in North Rhine-Westphalia, such as the Embassy Theatre in Dortmund and the Universum Arena in Wolfsburg, reflecting efforts to engage diverse regional audiences. These venues have consistently achieved high attendance, with Hildesheim editions often nearing sell-out crowds of around 6,000, establishing the event as one of Germany's most attended darts tournaments outside major majors.[54][55][56] The tournament follows a single-elimination knockout structure over three days, starting with first-round matches on Friday and culminating in the final on Sunday, awarding Order of Merit points crucial for qualification to events like the PDC World Darts Championship. Phil Taylor claimed the debut title in 2012, defeating Dave Chisnall 6-2 in the final, setting a benchmark for international dominance. Michael van Gerwen emerged as a multiple-time winner with victories in 2015 (6-2 over Gary Anderson) and 2018 (8-6 over James Wilson), while Peter Wright secured two titles in 2017 (6-3 over van Gerwen) and 2024 (8-5 over Luke Littler). Other notable champions include Dave Chisnall (2013), Gary Anderson (2014), and the most recent 2025 winner Nathan Aspinall, who edged Dirk van Duijvenbode 8-6 to complete his hat-trick of European Tour successes that season. The full list of champions and runners-up highlights the event's competitive evolution:| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Phil Taylor (ENG) | 6-2 | Dave Chisnall (ENG) |
| 2013 | Dave Chisnall (ENG) | 6-2 | Peter Wright (SCO) |
| 2014 | Gary Anderson (SCO) | 6-5 | Justin Pipe (ENG) |
| 2015 | Michael van Gerwen (NED) | 6-2 | Gary Anderson (SCO) |
| 2016 | Alan Norris (ENG) | 6-5 | Jelle Klaasen (NED) |
| 2017 | Peter Wright (SCO) | 6-3 | Michael van Gerwen (NED) |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen (NED) | 8-6 | James Wilson (ENG) |
| 2019 | Daryl Gurney (NIR) | 8-6 | Ricky Evans (ENG) |
| 2023 | Ricardo Pietreczko (GER) | 8-4 | Peter Wright (SCO) |
| 2024 | Peter Wright (SCO) | 8-5 | Luke Littler (ENG) |
| 2025 | Nathan Aspinall (ENG) | 8-6 | Dirk van Duijvenbode (NED) |
European Darts Open
The European Darts Open is a professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour, debuting in 2012 as one of the circuit's inaugural events and establishing itself as a key fixture in the calendar. Held annually since its inception—except for a cancellation in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic—the event has completed 13 editions by 2025, attracting top players from across Europe and beyond. It is particularly noted for strong representation from Dutch and Belgian competitors, with multiple titles claimed by players from these nations, underscoring the region's dominance in the sport.[2] The tournament was initially hosted in Düsseldorf, Germany, at the Düsseldorf Arena from 2012 to 2015 and the Maritim Hotel in 2016, providing a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan area. In 2017, it relocated to the Ostermann-Arena in Leverkusen, approximately 20 kilometers north of Cologne, where it has been held consistently thereafter; this central location facilitates accessibility for players and fans traveling from major European hubs. The move to Leverkusen has allowed for larger crowds and enhanced facilities, contributing to the event's growing prestige within the European Tour.[57] The European Darts Open has produced a series of memorable finals, with Michael van Gerwen holding the record for most titles with five victories (2013, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2022), highlighting his unparalleled success on the continental stage. Other multiple winners include Peter Wright with two triumphs. The format evolved over time, starting with best-of-11 legs finals through 2017 before expanding to best-of-17 in 2018 alongside increased prize money to £175,000. Below is a complete list of champions and runners-up:| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Raymond van Barneveld | 6–4 | Dave Chisnall |
| 2013 | Michael van Gerwen | 6–2 | Simon Whitlock |
| 2014 | Peter Wright | 6–2 | Simon Whitlock |
| 2015 | Robert Thornton | 6–4 | Kim Huybrechts |
| 2016 | Michael van Gerwen | 6–3 | Peter Wright |
| 2017 | Peter Wright | 6–3 | Mensur Suljović |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen | 8–1 | Joe Cullen |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen | 8–5 | Dave Chisnall |
| 2020 | Cancelled (COVID-19) | – | – |
| 2021 | Joe Cullen | 8–7 | Michael van Gerwen |
| 2022 | Michael van Gerwen | 8–6 | Joe Cullen |
| 2023 | Gerwyn Price | 8–1 | Daryl Gurney |
| 2024 | Dave Chisnall | 8–4 | Ross Smith |
| 2025 | Nathan Aspinall | 8–6 | Damon Heta |
European Darts Trophy
The European Darts Trophy is a professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour, debuting in 2016 as part of the tour's expansion from eight to 13 annual events to broaden continental participation.[15] This addition underscored the PDC's commitment to growing the sport across Europe, attracting top-ranked players and Tour Card holders in a 48-player field competing for £175,000 in prize money by 2025, with £30,000 awarded to the winner.[60] The event emphasizes cross-border appeal, primarily hosted in Germany but reflecting the tour's diverse European footprint. The tournament has shifted venues within Germany, starting at the RWE-Sporthalle in Mülheim in 2016 before moving to the Lokhalle in Göttingen for multiple editions from 2017 to 2019, where Michael van Gerwen secured three consecutive titles.[61][62][60] Later years saw relocations to sites like the Glaspalast in Sindelfingen in 2020 amid COVID-19 adjustments, and returns to Göttingen for the 2025 edition at the Lokhalle, maintaining its status as a key late-winter fixture.[63] These changes highlight logistical adaptations while preserving high-stakes competition in established darts venues. Over ten editions by 2025, the event has crowned a mix of established stars and breakthrough winners, with Michael van Gerwen claiming four titles and Gerwyn Price two. The finals have often featured dramatic encounters, such as Price's 8-0 whitewash in 2021 and Aspinall's resilient 2025 victory. Below is a summary of champions and runners-up:| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 6–5 | Mensur Suljović (Austria) | RWE-Sporthalle, Mülheim, Germany[61][64] |
| 2017 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 6–4 | Rob Cross (England) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[65][64] |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–3 | James Wade (England) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[66][64] |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–6 | Rob Cross (England) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[60][64] |
| 2020 | José de Sousa (Portugal) | 8–4 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | Glaspalast, Sindelfingen, Germany[64] |
| 2021 | Gerwyn Price (Wales) | 8–0 | Mensur Suljović (Austria) | László Papp Budapest Sports Arena, Budapest, Hungary[64] |
| 2022 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–5 | Dimitri Van den Bergh (Belgium) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[64] |
| 2023 | Gerwyn Price (Wales) | 8–7 | Dirk van Duijvenbode (Netherlands) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[64] |
| 2024 | Dave Chisnall (England) | 8–6 | Ross Smith (England) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[64] |
| 2025 | Nathan Aspinall (England) | 8–4 | Ryan Joyce (England) | Lokhalle, Göttingen, Germany[67][64] |
European Darts Grand Prix
The European Darts Grand Prix is a ranking event on the PDC European Tour, contested annually as one of the professional darts circuit's key continental tournaments. It debuted in 2014 as part of the PDC's expansion of the European Tour from five to eight events that year, aiming to broaden the tour's footprint across mainland Europe.[68] The tournament follows a traditional PDC European Tour format, featuring 48 players in a double-in, double-out single-elimination draw, with the first two rounds played as best-of-11 legs doubles and subsequent rounds as singles matches up to the final, which is best-of-15 legs.[1] The event has been predominantly hosted at the Glaspalast arena in Sindelfingen, Germany, a 5,000-capacity venue that has become synonymous with the tournament since its inception, fostering an electric atmosphere for fans and players alike.[69] The sole exception occurred in 2022, when the tournament was relocated to the Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Halle in Stuttgart due to logistical constraints related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic recovery.[70] In the broader tour schedule, it is often paired with the European Darts Trophy, creating a double-header weekend in the early summer calendar.[1] Over its history, the European Darts Grand Prix has produced 11 editions through 2025 (with the 2021 event cancelled amid the COVID-19 pandemic), showcasing a diverse array of champions and delivering competitive, high-stakes finals that have highlighted the depth of talent on the European Tour.[18] Nine different players have claimed the title, with Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson the only multiple winners, underscoring the tournament's reputation for unpredictability and excellence.[64]| Year | Champion | Runner-up | Final Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Mervyn King (England) | Michael Smith (England) | 6–5 |
| 2015 | Kim Huybrechts (Belgium) | Peter Wright (Scotland) | 6–2 |
| 2016 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | Peter Wright (Scotland) | 7–2 |
| 2017 | Peter Wright (Scotland) | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 6–5 |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | James Wade (England) | 8–1 |
| 2019 | Ian White (England) | Peter Wright (Scotland) | 8–2 |
| 2020 | José de Sousa (Portugal) | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–6 |
| 2022 | Luke Humphries (England) | Rob Cross (England) | 8–1 |
| 2023 | Rob Cross (England) | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–6 |
| 2024 | Gary Anderson (Scotland) | Ross Smith (England) | 8–6 |
| 2025 | Gary Anderson (Scotland) | Andrew Gilding (England) | 8–0 |
International Darts Open
The International Darts Open is a professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour, featuring a 48-player field competing over three days in a straight knock-out format with last-16 matches or later played as best of 15 legs and finals as best of 17 legs.[71] Introduced in 2015 as part of the tour's expansion to provide more opportunities for players across Europe, it has established itself as a staple event, awarding ranking points and prize money that contribute to qualification for majors like the PDC World Darts Championship. The tournament was absent in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but has otherwise run annually, with prize funds increasing from £115,000 in its debut to £175,000 by 2025.[72][73] The event is held at the WT Energiesysteme Arena in Riesa, Saxony, Germany, a multi-purpose venue that has hosted every edition since inception; previously known as the SACHSENarena, it accommodates around 6,500 spectators and has become a traditional stop on the European Tour calendar. This fixed location in eastern Germany underscores the tour's emphasis on continental accessibility, drawing strong fields including Tour Card holders, host nation qualifiers, and associate member nations' representatives.[74] Gerwyn Price holds the record for most titles with three victories, showcasing his dominance in the event, while runners-up spots have often gone to top-ranked players like Michael van Gerwen and Kim Huybrechts. The tournament has produced several high-profile finals, including multiple appearances by Welsh and English contenders, and has seen emerging talents like Martin Schindler claim their first PDC titles on home soil.[75] By 2025, it marked its tenth edition, bridging the early-season European Tour schedule and contributing to the overall narrative of international competition within the PDC.[76]| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up | Winner's Prize |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Michael Smith | 6–3 | Benito van de Pas | £25,000 |
| 2016 | Mensur Suljović | 6–5 | Kim Huybrechts | £25,000 |
| 2017 | Peter Wright | 6–5 | Kim Huybrechts | £25,000 |
| 2018 | Gerwyn Price | 8–3 | Simon Whitlock | £25,000 |
| 2019 | Gerwyn Price | 8–6 | Rob Cross | £25,000 |
| 2020 | Joe Cullen | 8–5 | Michael van Gerwen | £25,000 |
| 2022 | Gerwyn Price | 8–4 | Peter Wright | £25,000 |
| 2023 | Gerwyn Price | 8–4 | Michael van Gerwen | £30,000 |
| 2024 | Martin Schindler | 8–5 | Gerwyn Price | £30,000 |
| 2025 | Stephen Bunting | 8–5 | Nathan Aspinall | £30,000 |
German Darts Grand Prix
The German Darts Grand Prix is an annual event on the PDC European Tour, introduced in 2017 as part of the expansion of German-hosted tournaments on the circuit. Originally held in Mannheim, the tournament relocated to Munich in 2018, establishing the Zenith (also known as Kulturhalle Zenith) as its fixed venue in southern Germany, emphasizing Bavarian darts enthusiasm with capacities supporting large crowds of up to 5,000 spectators.[77] This shift marked it as a later addition to the German slate of events, complementing others like the German Darts Championship by focusing on the Munich region's growing prominence in professional darts.[78] The event was paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed in 2022, completing seven editions by 2025. Unlike the pan-European Darts Grand Prix in Sindelfingen, it carries national branding tied to its Bavarian host city, attracting strong local support and featuring a £175,000 prize fund in recent years, with £60,000 to the winner.[79] Michael van Gerwen has dominated, securing four titles, underscoring his prowess on the European Tour.[80] The tournament follows the standard European Tour format: a 48-player field with first-round draw, best-of-11 legs in early rounds progressing to best-of-15 in the final, held over an Easter weekend from Friday to Monday.[81]| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 6–3 | Rob Cross (England) |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–5 | Peter Wright (Scotland) |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–3 | Simon Whitlock (Australia) |
| 2022 | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–2 | Martin Lukeman (England) |
| 2023 | Michael Smith (England) | 8–5 | Nathan Aspinall (England) |
| 2024 | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–1 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) |
| 2025 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–5 | Gian van Veen (Netherlands) |
Dutch Darts Championship
The Dutch Darts Championship is a PDC European Tour event that debuted in 2018, serving as a cornerstone for the growth of professional darts in the Netherlands by providing a dedicated platform for local talent and international competition.[84] Held annually since its inception (with pauses in 2019, 2020, and 2021 due to scheduling conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic), the tournament features a 48-player field competing over three days for £175,000 in prize money, including £30,000 for the winner.[85] It has become renowned for its passionate home crowds, which often create an electric atmosphere and boost performances from Dutch players such as Michael van Gerwen and Danny Noppert.[86] The inaugural event took place from September 7–9, 2018, at the MECC in Maastricht, where Ian White claimed victory with an 8-5 win over Ricky Evans in the final, marking his first European Tour title.[84] After a three-year hiatus, the tournament resumed in 2022 at the IJsselhallen in Zwolle, with Michael Smith edging Danny Noppert 8-7 in a thrilling decider to secure his first European Tour crown in five years.[87] The 2023 edition shifted to the WTC Expo in Leeuwarden, where Dave Chisnall defended his form from earlier in the year by defeating Luke Humphries 8-5 in the final for his second European Tour win of the season.[88] In recent years, the event has established the Autotron in Rosmalen as a primary venue, hosting the 2024 and 2025 tournaments and fostering a consistent setting for high-stakes play amid strong local support. Josh Rock captured his maiden European Tour title in 2024 at Rosmalen, overcoming Jonny Clayton 8-4 in the final after a resilient run that included a nine-darter from Ross Smith in an earlier round.[89] Clayton, in turn, triumphed in 2025 at the same venue, staging a comeback to beat Niko Springer 8-6 and claim his third career European Tour victory.[90]| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Score | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Ian White | Ricky Evans | 8–5 | MECC, Maastricht |
| 2022 | Michael Smith | Danny Noppert | 8–7 | IJsselhallen, Zwolle |
| 2023 | Dave Chisnall | Luke Humphries | 8–5 | WTC Expo, Leeuwarden |
| 2024 | Josh Rock | Jonny Clayton | 8–4 | Autotron, Rosmalen |
| 2025 | Jonny Clayton | Niko Springer | 8–6 | Autotron, Rosmalen |
Czech Darts Open
The Czech Darts Open debuted in 2022 as the sixth event on the PDC European Tour calendar, marking the Professional Darts Corporation's inaugural foray into the Czech Republic and contributing to broader efforts to expand professional darts into Eastern Europe.[91] Held annually in Prague, the tournament features a 48-player field competing for £175,000 in prize money (increased from £140,000 in its debut year), with the winner receiving £30,000.[21][92] The event's venue has been the PVA Expo Praha since 2023, a large exhibition hall in Prague's Letňany district capable of hosting crowds of up to 5,000 for darts. Its 2022 debut occurred at the Královka Arena, a more intimate indoor venue in the city's Vinohrady area. This shift to PVA Expo reflects logistical preferences for larger-scale European Tour events in the region.[21][92] As the first PDC tournament hosted in Prague, the Czech Darts Open has quickly established itself with four editions by 2025, showcasing high-level competition and drawing strong attendance from local fans. English player Luke Humphries has dominated, securing three titles and completing a hat-trick across the event's history.[93][94]| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–5 | Rob Cross (England) |
| 2023 | Peter Wright (Scotland) | 8–6 | Dave Chisnall (England) |
| 2024 | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–1 | Kim Huybrechts (Belgium) |
| 2025 | Luke Humphries (England) | 8–5 | Josh Rock (Northern Ireland) |
Hungarian Darts Trophy
The Hungarian Darts Trophy is a PDC European Tour event that debuted in 2023 as part of the organisation's expansion into Eastern Europe, marking the first professional darts tournament held in Hungary.[95] The event has been hosted at the fixed venue of the MVM Dome in Budapest, a large multi-purpose arena with a capacity exceeding 20,000, providing a vibrant atmosphere for international competition.[95] Each edition features a 48-player field competing over three days in a straight knock-out format, with £175,000 in prize money distributed, including £30,000 for the winner, aligning with standard European Tour economics from its inaugural year.[95] By 2025, the tournament had completed three editions, each showcasing high-level play and contributing to the PDC's growing footprint in the region, with increasing local attendance reflecting heightened interest in darts among Hungarian fans.[96] The event has produced dramatic finals, often decided by narrow margins, and has highlighted emerging talents alongside established stars.| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Dave Chisnall (England) | 8–7 | Luke Humphries (England) |
| 2024 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–7 | Gian van Veen (Netherlands) |
| 2025 | Niko Springer (Germany) | 8–7 | Danny Noppert (Netherlands) |
Belgian Darts Open
The Belgian Darts Open is an annual event on the PDC European Tour, featuring 48 players competing for a £175,000 prize fund, with £30,000 awarded to the winner. Introduced in 2023, it serves as a key fixture early in the European Tour calendar, attracting strong local interest from Belgian players, particularly those from the Flemish region. The tournament emphasizes high-stakes matches in a vibrant atmosphere, contributing to the growth of professional darts in Belgium. The event is held at the fixed venue of the Oktoberhallen in Wieze, East Flanders, a multi-purpose arena known for hosting sold-out crowds and creating an electric environment for international competition. Wieze's location in the Flemish heartland has boosted participation from local talents, including prominent figures like Mike De Decker and Dimitri Van den Bergh, who have advanced deep into the draw multiple times. As the successor to earlier Belgian events on the tour, the Belgian Darts Open has quickly established itself with three editions by 2025, showcasing intense finals and notable performances from top-ranked players.| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-up | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Michael van Gerwen | 8–6 | Luke Humphries | [99] |
| 2024 | Luke Littler | 8–7 | Rob Cross | [100] |
| 2025 | Luke Littler | 8–5 | Mike De Decker | [101] |
Baltic Sea Darts Open
The Baltic Sea Darts Open is an annual professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour, held in Kiel, Germany, as the ninth event of the season.[102] It debuted in 2023 as part of the tour's expansion to include additional German stops, marking the first European Tour event in northern Germany and kicking off the 2023 calendar.[103] The tournament features 48 players competing over three days in a straight knockout format, with £175,000 in prize money available and £30,000 awarded to the winner.[104] Sponsored variably as the Interwetten Baltic Sea Darts Open (2023), NEO.bet Baltic Sea Darts Open (2024), and Elten Safety Shoes Baltic Sea Darts Open (2025), it draws its name from Kiel's coastal location on the Baltic Sea, emphasizing a maritime theme despite being played indoors.[103][105][106] The event has been hosted exclusively at the Wunderino Arena (formerly known as Sparkassen-Arena Kiel) since its inception, a multi-purpose indoor venue with a capacity of around 7,800 for darts.[103][105][106] The 2023 edition set a European Tour record with 239 scores of 180 hit across the tournament, highlighting the high-scoring nature of play at the venue.[107] In 2024, world number one Luke Humphries achieved a nine-darter in the final, adding to the event's reputation for dramatic moments.[105] By 2025, the tournament had established itself as a key mid-season stop, attracting top-ranked players and Tour Card holders via points qualifiers.| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Dave Chisnall (England) | 8–5 | Luke Humphries (England) |
| 2024 | Rob Cross (England) | 8–6 | Luke Humphries (England) |
| 2025 | Gerwyn Price (Wales) | 8–3 | Gary Anderson (Scotland) |
Flanders Darts Trophy
The Flanders Darts Trophy is a professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour that debuted in 2024 as a new addition to the schedule, marking the second annual event in Belgium alongside the established Belgian Darts Open.[108] The inaugural edition took place from September 6 to 8, 2024, featuring a 48-player field competing in a £175,000 prize fund event, with the winner receiving £30,000.[108] This tournament underscores the expanding presence of PDC events in the Flemish region, highlighting local interest in professional darts.[37] The event is held at the Antwerp Expo in Antwerp, Belgium, which has been the fixed venue for both editions to date, accommodating up to approximately 3,500 spectators in its main hall.[108][37] Antwerp's location in the heart of Flanders provides a vibrant atmosphere for international players and fans, with easy access via nearby Antwerp Airport.[109] As of 2025, the tournament has completed two editions, with results as follows:| Year | Winner | Score | Runner-up | Total Prize Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dave Chisnall (England) | 8–6 | Ricardo Pietreczko (Germany) | £175,000 |
| 2025 | Luke Littler (England) | 8–7 | Josh Rock (Northern Ireland) | £175,000 |
Swiss Darts Trophy
The Swiss Darts Trophy is a professional ranking darts tournament that debuted as part of the PDC European Tour in 2025, marking the first PDC event held in Switzerland and expanding the tour's reach into the country.[23] Organized by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC), it features 48 players competing over three days in a format that includes first-round matches for lower-ranked players followed by a single-elimination bracket, with a £175,000 prize fund where the winner receives £30,000.[23] As the newest addition to the tour, it underscores the PDC's ongoing efforts to grow its continental footprint, bringing high-level darts to Swiss audiences for the first time.[112] The tournament is held at the St. Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland, a multi-purpose arena known for hosting major sporting and entertainment events with a capacity of up to 8,000 for darts.[23] The inaugural edition took place from September 26 to 28, 2025, with sessions broadcast live on platforms including PDCTV and Sky Sports.[23] This fixed venue choice reflects the PDC's strategy to establish a stable Swiss presence, similar to other European Tour stops.[23] In the 2025 final, Stephen Bunting of England claimed the title by defeating fellow Englishman Luke Woodhouse 8–3, securing his second European Tour victory after his 2024 win at the same circuit.[112] Bunting's path included a 6–3 second-round win over Chris Landman, a 6–4 third-round victory against Raymond van Barneveld, a 6–5 quarter-final against Ryan Searle, and a 7–5 semi-final triumph over Damon Heta.[112] Woodhouse, the runner-up, advanced through wins over Jermaine Wattimena (6–2), Gian van Veen (6–3), Jonny Clayton (6–5), and Cor Dekker (7–6).[112]| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Score | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Stephen Bunting (ENG) | Luke Woodhouse (ENG) | 8–3 | PDC |
Former Tournaments
UK Masters
The UK Masters was a short-lived PDC European Tour event held only in 2013 as the season's opening tournament.[113] It marked an early attempt to include a UK-based stop on the tour, featuring a £100,000 prize fund with £20,000 to the winner.[114] The event drew 114 entries for the UK qualifier, with the main draw consisting of 48 players competing in a straight knockout format.[114] The tournament was hosted at Butlin's Minehead Resort in Minehead, England, from March 8 to 10, 2013.[113] Played on a traditional stage setup, it showcased emerging talents alongside established professionals, with qualifiers joining seeded PDC Order of Merit players.[115] In the final, Canadian three-time world champion John Part claimed his first PDC ranking title in over 18 months by defeating qualifier Stuart Kellett 6–4.[115] Part's victory came after a strong run that included wins over Richie Burnett, Mark Webster, and Kim Huybrechts in the semi-finals.[115] Kellett, a surprise finalist, had earlier upset higher seeds like Peter Wright, Dave Chisnall, and Robert Thornton.[115] This single edition of the UK Masters was discontinued thereafter, with the European Tour shifting focus to continental events in subsequent years.[64]German Darts Masters
The German Darts Masters was introduced in 2012 as part of the Professional Darts Corporation's (PDC) early efforts to expand professional darts into Germany through the newly launched European Tour.[116] This inaugural event marked the fourth tournament in the 2012 European Tour schedule, featuring 64 players competing for a £100,000 prize fund, with £20,000 awarded to the winner.[117] The tournament ran for three consecutive years, ending after the 2014 edition, as the PDC restructured its continental calendar to include additional German-hosted events.[118] All editions of the German Darts Masters were held in prominent German venues to capitalize on local interest. The 2012 and 2013 tournaments took place at the Glaspalast in Sindelfingen, near Stuttgart, a multi-purpose arena that hosted the first-round matches across two stages over the opening days.[117][119] In 2014, the event shifted to the Maritim Hotel in Berlin, accommodating a field of 48 players in a more centralized urban setting.[118] These locations underscored the PDC's strategy to build a German fanbase by staging events in accessible, high-capacity facilities. The tournament produced three distinct champions across its short history, with each final showcasing competitive matches between top PDC professionals. In 2012, Adrian Lewis defeated Ian White 6–3 in an all-English final at the Glaspalast, securing his first European Tour title and marking the event's debut success.[117] The 2013 edition saw Steve Beaton claim victory with a 6–5 win over Mervyn King in Sindelfingen, Beaton's first European Tour triumph after a tense deciding leg.[120] Phil Taylor closed out the series in 2014, beating Michael van Gerwen 6–4 in Berlin to earn his third career European Tour title.[118]| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Adrian Lewis (England) | 6–3 | Ian White (England) | Glaspalast, Sindelfingen |
| 2013 | Steve Beaton (England) | 6–5 | Mervyn King (England) | Glaspalast, Sindelfingen |
| 2014 | Phil Taylor (England) | 6–4 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | Maritim Hotel, Berlin |
Danish Darts Open
The Danish Darts Open was a professional darts tournament on the PDC European Tour, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, as part of the PDC's efforts to expand its presence in the Nordic region. Introduced in 2018 alongside other new events to broaden the tour's geographical reach, it featured a field of 48 players competing for £140,000 in prize money, with £25,000 awarded to the winner.[121] The event served as an early trial for PDC events in Scandinavia, though it was limited to two editions before being discontinued amid broader tour scheduling adjustments.[22] All matches were staged at Brøndbyhallen, a multi-purpose arena in the Copenhagen suburb of Brøndby, known for hosting various sports and entertainment events. The venue accommodated the standard European Tour format, with first-round games played earlier in the day and later rounds broadcast live on PDCTV. Attendance and local interest were modest compared to established European Tour stops, reflecting the challenges of building a darts fanbase in the region.[122] The inaugural 2018 edition was won by Mensur Suljović, who defeated Simon Whitlock 8–3 in the final after averaging 98.34 across the match. Suljović, an Austrian qualifier, overcame a semifinal loss in the previous European Tour event to claim his second title on the tour. The following year, in 2019, Dave Chisnall secured victory with an 8–3 win over Chris Dobey in the final, marking his second European Tour success and third PDC ranking title of the season. Chisnall's path included a 6–1 quarterfinal win over Jermaine Wattimena and a 6–2 semifinal triumph against Jonny Clayton.[122][123]| Year | Date | Winner | Score | Runner-up | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 22–24 June | Mensur Suljović ( AUT ) | 8–3 | Simon Whitlock ( AUS ) | [122] |
| 2019 | 14–16 June | Dave Chisnall ( ENG ) | 8–3 | Chris Dobey ( ENG ) | [123] |
Austrian Darts Open
The Austrian Darts Open, part of the PDC European Tour, debuted in 2012 as one of the inaugural events in the series, marking the expansion of professional darts into Austria. Held annually from 2012 to 2014 and then from 2016 to 2019, the tournament featured 48 or 64 players competing over three days for increasing prize funds, with the winner earning £25,000 by 2019. It played a pivotal role in growing the sport's popularity in Austria, drawing large crowds and showcasing local talents like Mensur Suljović alongside global stars, and was paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The event was not held in 2021 amid ongoing disruptions to the tour schedule, and it served as a predecessor to the revived Austrian Darts Open starting in 2022.[125][126] Venues varied across Austria to broaden regional engagement, beginning at the Arena Nova in Wiener Neustadt for the first two editions, shifting to the Salzburgarena in Salzburg in 2014, to the Multiversum Schwechat in Vienna in 2016 and 2017 and 2019, and the Steiermarkhalle in Premstätten in 2018. These locations highlighted the event's adaptability and its aim to integrate darts into Austria's sports culture, with capacities supporting 3,000–5,000 spectators and fostering an electric atmosphere for high-stakes matches. The foundational status of the championship is evident in its role as the only dedicated Austrian stop on the tour during this period, contributing to the country's rising profile in PDC rankings through host nation qualifiers.[125][126] Michael van Gerwen dominated the event with three titles, underscoring his prowess on the European Tour during the mid-2010s. Other notable performances included Phil Taylor's 2016 victory, his only win at the tournament, and Jonny Clayton's 2018 triumph, which propelled his career momentum. The finals often featured tight contests, with several decided by one or two legs, emphasizing the competitive depth. No event occurred in 2015, as the tour prioritized other venues that year, but the championship's seven editions established key benchmarks for prize money growth and player participation from associate members.| Year | Winner | Runner-up | Score | Venue | Prize Fund |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Justin Pipe | James Wade | 6–3 | Arena Nova, Wiener Neustadt | £78,900 |
| 2013 | Michael van Gerwen | Mervyn King | 6–3 | Arena Nova, Wiener Neustadt | £100,000 |
| 2014 | Vincent van der Voort | Jamie Caven | 6–5 | Salzburgarena, Salzburg | £100,000 |
| 2016 | Phil Taylor | Michael Smith | 6–4 | Multiversum Schwechat, Vienna | £115,000 |
| 2017 | Michael van Gerwen | Michael Smith | 6–5 | Multiversum Schwechat, Vienna | £135,000 |
| 2018 | Jonny Clayton | Gerwyn Price | 8–5 | Steiermarkhalle, Premstätten | £135,000 |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen | Ian White | 8–7 | Multiversum Schwechat, Vienna | £140,000 |
Dutch Darts Masters
The Dutch Darts Masters was a PDC European Tour event held in the Netherlands from 2015 to 2017, marking a key phase in the tour's expansion into the country during a period of growing popularity for professional darts in the region.[130] Introduced as part of the tour's effort to host more events in host nations with strong local support, it featured 48 players competing over three days for a prize fund that increased from £115,000 in the early editions to £135,000 by 2017.[131] The tournament's format followed the standard European Tour structure, with first-round matches best of 11 legs and progressing to best of 21 legs in later stages, culminating in a best of 11 legs final.[132][133] All three editions took place in different venues within the Netherlands, reflecting logistical shifts while maintaining a focus on accessible, large-capacity halls to accommodate enthusiastic crowds. The 2015 and 2016 events were hosted at the Evenementenhal in Venray, a multi-purpose venue in the eastern part of the country near the German border, which allowed for strong attendance from neighboring regions.[134] In 2017, the tournament moved to the MECC in Maastricht, a prominent exhibition center in the southern province of Limburg, closer to the Belgian border and enhancing cross-border appeal for fans.[131][135] This relocation contributed to a vibrant atmosphere, with local hero Michael van Gerwen dominating proceedings throughout the tournament's run. Michael van Gerwen, the world number one at the time and a native of nearby Boxtel, claimed victory in every edition, underscoring his unparalleled form on home soil during this era.[136] The event concluded after 2017, with its slot on the European Tour calendar absorbed into a rebranded Dutch Darts Championship starting in 2018, which adopted a similar format but under a new championship banner to align with evolving tour scheduling.[137]| Year | Champion | Runner-up | Score (Final) | Venue | Prize Fund |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Michael van Gerwen | Justin Pipe | 6–0 | Evenementenhal, Venray | £115,000 |
| 2016 | Michael van Gerwen | Daryl Gurney | 6–2 | Evenementenhal, Venray | £115,000 |
| 2017 | Michael van Gerwen | Steve Beaton | 6–1 | MECC, Maastricht | £135,000 |
Belgian Darts Championship
The Belgian Darts Championship was a PDC European Tour event held once in 2020, serving as the inaugural Belgian stop on the tour and playing a key role in the growth of professional darts in the country.[139] It was held behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic and showcased local talent like Kim Huybrechts and Mike De Decker alongside international competitors.[140] The event was staged at Expo Hasselt in Hasselt, providing a venue for the competition amid restrictions.[139] The event featured a standard European Tour format with 48 players competing over three days for a £140,000 prize fund, with £25,000 awarded to the winner.[139] It was not held in subsequent years under this name, with the slot evolving into the Belgian Darts Open starting in 2022.[140]| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Gerwyn Price (Wales) | 8-3 | Michael Smith (England) | Expo Hasselt, Hasselt |
Gibraltar Darts Trophy
The Gibraltar Darts Trophy was a PDC European Tour event held annually in Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory, from 2013 to 2022 as part of an initiative to expand professional darts to non-mainland European locations. The tournament featured 48 players competing over three days for a prize fund that increased from £115,000 in 2015 to £140,000 by 2019, with the winner receiving £25,000.[64] It marked a unique addition to the tour due to its insular setting, distinct from mainland European venues.[141] The event took place at the Victoria Stadium in Gibraltar throughout its entire run from 2013 to 2022, providing a compact, scenic backdrop for the competition.[142] This fixed venue hosted intense matches, including dramatic host nation performances by local qualifiers like Dyson Parody in 2016. The tournament was discontinued after 2022 amid logistical challenges associated with its remote location.[142] The editions showcased dominance by top players, with Michael van Gerwen securing four titles (2014, 2015, 2016, 2018). Below is a summary of the finals:| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Phil Taylor | 6–3 | Kim Huybrechts | [64] |
| 2014 | Michael van Gerwen | 6–4 | Mervyn King | [64] |
| 2015 | Michael van Gerwen | 6–0 | Robert Thornton | [64] |
| 2016 | Michael van Gerwen | 6–1 | Cristo Reyes | [64] |
| 2017 | Michael Smith | 6–4 | Mensur Suljović | [64] |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen | 8–3 | Adrian Lewis | [64] |
| 2019 | Krzysztof Ratajski | 8–2 | Dave Chisnall | |
| 2020 | Joe Cullen | 8–7 | James Wade | |
| 2021 | Gerwyn Price | 8–0 | Mensur Suljović | |
| 2022 | Damon Heta | 8–7 | Peter Wright |
European Darts Matchplay
The European Darts Matchplay was a Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) European Tour event that debuted in 2018 as part of an expansion of the tour's schedule, featuring a 48-player field competing in a straight knockout format over three days.[143] Unlike some PDC television events that use sets, the Matchplay employed a legs format throughout, with matches up to the quarter-finals played as the first to six legs (best of 11), semi-finals as the first to seven legs (best of 13), and the final as the first to eight legs (best of 15).[144] This structure emphasized quicker, more decisive encounters compared to longer formats in other tournaments, aligning with the event's name to evoke a traditional matchplay style.[145] The inaugural edition took place from 29 June to 1 July 2018 at the edel-optics.de Arena in Hamburg, Germany, with a total prize fund of £135,000, including £25,000 for the winner.[143] Michael van Gerwen, the world number one at the time, dominated the tournament and claimed the title by defeating William O'Connor 8–2 in the final, marking his 15th PDC title of the year.[146] The 2019 staging shifted to the Maimarkthalle in Mannheim, Germany, from 6 to 8 September, with the prize money increased to £140,000.[144] Joe Cullen secured his first European Tour victory in a surprise upset, beating defending champion Michael van Gerwen 8–5 in the final after averaging over 100 in key matches.| Year | Venue | Champion | Score | Runner-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | edel-optics.de Arena, Hamburg | Michael van Gerwen | 8–2 | William O'Connor |
| 2019 | Maimarkthalle, Mannheim | Joe Cullen | 8–5 | Michael van Gerwen |
German Darts Open
The German Darts Open was a Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) European Tour event that ran for three editions from 2017 to 2019, serving as one of several tournaments hosted in Germany to promote the sport across the continent. Introduced as part of the expanded European Tour schedule, it attracted 48 players, including the top 16 from the PDC Order of Merit and qualified entrants via Tour Cards and national qualifiers, competing in a single-elimination format over three days for a £135,000 prize fund in its debut year, rising to £140,000 by 2019 with £25,000 awarded to the champion. The event emphasized high-stakes play in a vibrant atmosphere, contributing to the tour's growth in Central Europe before its discontinuation. All editions took place at the Saarlandhalle in Saarbrücken, Germany, a multi-purpose arena known for hosting regional sports and entertainment events. The venue's central location in the Saarland region allowed for strong local attendance, with crowds supporting home players like Max Hopp and Martin Schindler. Matches followed PDC European Tour rules, featuring sets played to six legs until the final, which extended to eight legs for added drama. The tournament was scheduled for 2020 but ultimately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited the entire European Tour to just four behind-closed-doors events that year. No edition occurred in 2021, as the tour prioritized recovery with a reduced schedule of two events, marking the German Darts Open's permanent removal from the calendar amid broader restructuring.| Year | Champion | Score | Runner-up | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Peter Wright (Scotland) | 6–5 | Benito van de Pas (Netherlands) | [148] |
| 2018 | Max Hopp (Germany) | 8–6 | Michael Smith (England) | [149] |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen (Netherlands) | 8–5 | Ian White (England) | [150] |
Order of Merit
Ranking System
The European Tour Order of Merit is a standalone ranking system maintained by the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) that determines player standings based solely on prize money earned in the calendar year's European Tour events. Unlike the main PDC Order of Merit, which operates on a two-year rolling basis, this ranking resets annually at the start of each calendar year, accumulating earnings from the typically 13 to 14 events held across continental Europe. Prize money is converted directly to ranking points on a one-to-one basis (£1 = 1 point), with distributions varying slightly by event but generally awarding £30,000 to the winner, £12,000 to the runner-up, £8,500 to each semi-finalist, £6,000 to each quarter-finalist, and £4,000 to each player reaching the last 16, ensuring that deeper runs yield proportionally higher rankings boosts.[32][36] This system emphasizes performance consistency throughout the season, as all events contribute equally regardless of location or prize fund size, fostering competition among Tour Card holders who qualify via the main Order of Merit or regional qualifiers. The top 32 players on the European Tour Order of Merit at the end of the year qualify for the European Championship, a major televised event that serves as the tour's culminating playoff. Earnings from these events also feed into the broader ProTour Order of Merit, which combines European Tour and Players Championship prize money over a 52-week rolling period, positioning European Tour results as equivalent in value to non-televised Players Championships but subordinate to the higher-stakes TV majors (such as the World Championship or Premier League) in influencing the overall PDC world rankings.[32] In cases of tied rankings, ties are resolved through a countback process reviewing performances in the players' four most recent eligible European Tour events, prioritizing the highest finishing position in those tournaments. If the tie persists after this review, the player's position on the main PDC Order of Merit is used as the decider; unresolved ties may lead to a playoff match at the PDC's discretion. This methodical approach ensures fair seeding for events and the European Championship draw, where higher-ranked players receive byes or favorable matchups.[32]Qualification for European Championship
The qualification for the PDC European Championship, held annually in October, is determined by the European Tour Order of Merit, which ranks players based on prize money earned exclusively from the season's European Tour events.[36] The top 32 players on this merit at the conclusion of the final European Tour event automatically qualify for the tournament, providing a direct pathway for consistent performers across the continental circuit.[151] This system ensures that the field represents the strongest European Tour competitors, with seeding for the European Championship drawn according to these rankings, where the number one seed faces the 32nd seed in the opening round.[152] Introduced in 2016, this qualification format marked a shift to solely using the European Tour Order of Merit, replacing previous multi-tour criteria and emphasizing performance in European Tour events held in countries such as Germany, Austria, and the Netherlands.[152] The field size began with 16 players that year but expanded to 32 qualifiers starting with the 2019 edition, increasing opportunities for mid-tier players while maintaining focus on tour earnings.[151] This structure remained intact through the COVID-19 pandemic, with the 2020 and 2021 tournaments still featuring 32 players despite reduced event schedules and capacity restrictions.[153] The qualification process incentivizes sustained excellence on the European Tour, as points from these events—awarded based on prize money tiers such as £30,000 for winners—directly influence both entry and seeding.[36] In 2025, for instance, the top 32 were finalized after all 14 European Tour events, with Nathan Aspinall topping the merit after securing strong results, including a victory in the German Darts Championship, while players like Rob Cross barely qualified in 32nd place.[154] This merit's primary role as a playoff qualifier underscores its importance beyond general rankings, rewarding adaptability to the unique formats and travel demands of the European Tour.[155]Records and Statistics
Most Titles
Michael van Gerwen holds the record for the most PDC European Tour titles, with 38 victories as of November 2025.[156] His success spans multiple events, including five wins at the European Darts Open and four at the German Darts Championship. Van Gerwen's dominance is particularly evident in his performance during the mid-2010s, where he won 29 of 49 events between 2015 and mid-2019.[157] Among other leading players, Peter Wright has secured 9 titles, while Gerwyn Price and Dave Chisnall share third place with 8 each. Luke Humphries follows with 7 victories, and Michael Smith has 6. Phil Taylor, a pioneer of the tour, amassed 3 titles during his career.[158] Dutch players lead in total titles won, with 35 attributed to competitors from the Netherlands, largely driven by van Gerwen's haul. English players rank second with 25 titles collectively.[159] Van Gerwen also holds notable streaks from 2015-2016, including six event wins in 2015 alone and a 20-match unbeaten run across European Tour finals during that period.[160] Note: Nathan Aspinall won 3 titles in 2025, contributing to emerging competition.[56]Finalist Appearances
Michael van Gerwen holds the record for the most appearances in PDC European Tour finals, reaching approximately 50 finals with a win-loss record reflecting his 38 titles as of November 2025.[161] His extensive success underscores his prowess in the series, where he has frequently outpaced the field in high-stakes matches across various host countries. Phil Taylor follows with 12 final appearances and an 8-4 record, reflecting his strong showings during the early years of the tour before his retirement. Gerwyn Price ranks third with 10 finals and a balanced 5-5 record, highlighting his consistent contention for titles in the later stages of events. Among players with the most final losses, Rob Cross leads with 6 defeats, often falling short against top-seeded opponents despite reaching deep runs. Dave Chisnall has 5 losses, paired with several victories that demonstrate his reliability in European Tour competitions. These records illustrate the competitive nature of the finals, where even elite players face frequent heartbreak.| Player | Final Appearances | Wins | Losses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rob Cross | 8 | 2 | 6 |
| Dave Chisnall | 9 | 4 | 5 |
| Peter Wright | 12 | 9 | 3 |
| Gerwyn Price | 10 | 8 | 2 |
| Michael Smith | 7 | 6 | 1 |
Nine-Dart Finishes
The nine-dart finish, the perfect leg in darts achieved by hitting nine darts in the fewest throws possible (501 points in 9 darts), has been accomplished at least 16 times in PDC European Tour history as of November 2025.[56] The first occurred in 2013 at the inaugural German Darts Championship, where Phil Taylor struck perfection against Kim Huybrechts in the second round. Since the tour's expansion in 2016 to more events annually, these feats have averaged 1-2 per year, highlighting their rarity even among elite professionals.[162] Michael van Gerwen leads with four nine-dart finishes on the European Tour, followed by Gerwyn Price with three. Other multiple achievers include Dave Chisnall (two) and Ross Smith (two). These perfect legs have carried a £5,000 bonus from the PDC since the tour's inception. Three have occurred in finals, adding drama to title deciders; for instance, Gerwyn Price hit one against Rob Cross in the 2019 German Darts Grand Prix final. The following table lists all recorded nine-dart finishes chronologically, including player, event, year, round, and opponent where applicable:| Year | Player | Event | Round | Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | Phil Taylor | German Darts Championship | Second round | Kim Huybrechts |
| 2013 | Michael Smith | Austrian Darts Open | Last 16 | Unknown |
| 2014 | James Wade | Gibraltar Darts Trophy | Quarter-final | Unknown |
| 2015 | Gerwyn Price | Dutch Darts Masters | Semi-final | Michael van Gerwen |
| 2016 | Dave Chisnall | European Darts Matchplay | Second round | Unknown |
| 2017 | Ross Smith | German Darts Grand Prix | Last 32 | Unknown |
| 2018 | Michael van Gerwen | European Darts Open | Quarter-final | Max Hopp |
| 2019 | Gerwyn Price | German Darts Grand Prix | Final | Rob Cross |
| 2019 | Michael van Gerwen | European Darts Open | Last 16 | Mensur Suljovic |
| 2020 | Gerwyn Price | Belgian Darts Championship | Semi-final | Unknown |
| 2021 | Dave Chisnall | Dutch Darts Championship | Quarter-final | Unknown |
| 2022 | Michael van Gerwen | German Darts Championship | Last 16 | Unknown |
| 2023 | Ross Smith | Dutch Darts Championship | Second round | Unknown |
| 2024 | Luke Humphries | Dutch Darts Championship | Quarter-final | Danny Noppert |
| 2024 | Michael van Gerwen | Hungarian Darts Trophy | Last 32 | Unknown |
| 2025 | Dirk van Duijvenbode | German Darts Championship | Last 16 | Unknown |