The World Grand Prix stands as one of darts’ most challenging tournaments, primarily due to its unique “double-start, double-finish” format. This article delves into its most astonishing records, highlighted by Phil “The Power” Taylor’s unparalleled eleven titles – a feat of dominance unlikely ever to be surpassed. We also explore the incredible rarity and excitement of the nine-dart finish in this format, a true test of precision that only a select few have mastered, showcasing why this tournament holds a special place in darts history.
Phil “The Power” Taylor: The Unmatched King of the Grand Prix
When it comes to the World Grand Prix, one name reigns supreme: Phil “The Power” Taylor. His record at this prestigious event is nothing short of legendary, setting a benchmark that may never be broken. Taylor didn’t just win; he dominated, securing an astonishing eleven titles during his illustrious career. This incredible achievement is even more remarkable when considering the tournament’s notoriously difficult format.
Unlike most darts tournaments where players can start by hitting any part of the board, the World Grand Prix demands a double-start. This means players must hit a double to begin scoring in each leg, and then another double to finish. This unique rule adds an immense layer of pressure and skill, often seeing even top professionals struggle to find their rhythm early in a leg. Taylor, however, mastered this challenge with unparalleled consistency.
Taylor’s Reign of Dominance
His victories spanned from the tournament’s inception in 1998 right through to 2011, with a few more wins later. This sustained excellence over more than a decade truly cements his status as the Grand Prix’s greatest champion. His ability to consistently navigate the tricky double-start and maintain peak performance under pressure set him apart. His final Grand Prix triumph came in 2011, further solidifying his legacy long after many thought his peak had passed.
The Holy Grail: Nine-Dart Finishes in a Unique Format
A nine-dart finish is the ultimate achievement in darts: clearing a 501-point leg in the minimum possible nine throws. It’s a rare feat even in standard tournaments. However, at the World Grand Prix, the “double-start, double-finish” rule elevates the nine-darter from rare to almost mythical. To achieve this, a player must start with a double, score perfectly, and then finish with another double – all within nine darts. This makes it arguably the hardest nine-dart finish in professional darts.
The standard route for a nine-darter in the Grand Prix involves hitting a double, then two 180s (three treble 20s), followed by another double, a treble, and a double to finish. For example: Double 20, 180, 180, then Double 20, Treble 20, Double 20. The precision required for the opening double, the sustained scoring, and the pressure of the finishing double sequence is immense.
The Elite Club of Grand Prix Nine-Darters
Given the extreme difficulty, only a handful of players have managed to achieve this ultimate display of skill at the World Grand Prix. These moments are etched into darts history and are celebrated as truly extraordinary accomplishments:
- Brendan Dolan (2011): Famous for hitting the first-ever nine-darter in the unique double-start format. This historic moment occurred against James Wade and was an incredible achievement that stunned the darts world.
- James Wade (2014): The ‘Machine’ himself achieved this against Robert Thornton, showcasing his own incredible precision and mental fortitude.
- Robert Thornton (2014): Remarkably, Thornton hit his nine-darter in the very next leg after Wade, making it the only time two nine-darters have been thrown in consecutive legs in a televised PDC event. An absolutely mind-boggling sequence of events!
- Michael van Gerwen (2022): ‘Mighty Mike’ added his name to this elite list, proving his dominance and ability to perform under the highest pressure.
- Josh Rock (2022): In the same tournament, the rising star Josh Rock also hit a nine-darter, further demonstrating the increasing skill level in modern darts.
These incredible moments underscore the World Grand Prix’s reputation as a tournament where legends are forged and darts history is made, demanding the very best from every player who steps onto its iconic stage.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
