The Hungarian Darts Trophy has already delivered major upsets and thrilling performances! In a shocking turn of events, World Number 2 Luke Humphries was sensationally knocked out by Dirk van Duijvenbode. While other top contenders like Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen secured their spots in the next round, the home nation hopefuls were eliminated. Get ready for a dramatic final day of intense darting action!
The Shockwaves: World Number 2 Exits Early
The biggest news from the second round came from the match between Luke Humphries, the newly-ranked World Number 2, and Dirk van Duijvenbode. Just three days after a major win, Van Duijvenbode found an incredible burst of form, especially towards the end of their clash. After a tight start with the score locked at 3-3 – a period that saw Humphries hit a spectacular 121 checkout on the bullseye – Van Duijvenbode shifted into high gear.
- He broke Humphries’ throw with a rapid 11-dart leg.
- Followed up with a brilliant 140 checkout to lead 5-3.
- Sealed his victory and a spot in the Last 16 with a cool 68 finish.
Humphries, gracious in defeat, could only offer his congratulations.
Top Contenders Navigate Through Tough Battles
While Humphries stumbled, other big names managed to advance, though not always without a fight.
Michael van Gerwen’s Gritty Win
Three-time World Champion Michael van Gerwen secured a 6-4 victory over James Hurrell. “Mighty Mike” had to dig deep, initially trailing 1-3. A crucial moment came when Hurrell carelessly gave away the sixth leg after Van Gerwen held his throw. With both players hitting 13-dart legs, Van Gerwen ultimately sealed the win with a 76 checkout and a decisive break in the final leg.
Van Gerwen now faces Nathan Aspinall in the Last 16, who defeated Ryan Joyce 6-4. Aspinall demonstrated strong scoring, but Joyce impressed with a 67% checkout rate on his doubles, including checkouts of 120 and 64 to lead 3-2. Aspinall responded with a 76 checkout and two rapid 14-dart legs to pull ahead 5-3, eventually closing out the match with a 15-darter.
Dominant Displays: Rock and Van Veen Shine
Young sensation Josh Rock delivered a crushing 6-0 whitewash against Joe Cullen. Rock’s average of 86, though not his personal best, was more than enough as Cullen struggled, averaging only 77. Rock’s efficient finishing included a 116 checkout and a 130 bullseye finish on his way to a dominant win.
Similarly, Gian van Veen showcased his power with a 6-0 shutout against Nandor Major. “The Giant” completed his match swiftly, highlighted by an impressive 167 checkout. Major’s only chance at a leg came in the last leg, where he narrowly missed a checkdart on double 4.
Other Notable Victories
- Jonny Clayton defeated Hungarian qualifier Laszlo Kadar 6-3. Kadar put up a good fight, hitting finishes of 105 and 76, but four missed doubles in the sixth leg proved costly, allowing Clayton to take control and win with an 81 checkout.
- Stephen Bunting had a comfortable 6-1 win against Jonas Masalin. Bunting quickly took the first five legs, including an 11-darter and a 120 checkout. Masalin managed a 100 checkout for his sole leg, before Bunting sealed the match with a 16-darter.
- Keane Barry advanced with a 6-2 victory over Madars Razma. Razma, who received a bye into this round, started strong with a 158 checkout to lead 2-1. However, Barry then reeled off five consecutive legs to secure his win and a guaranteed £5,000 in prize money.
The Road Ahead: Finals Day Schedule
The Hungarian Darts Trophy culminates on Sunday, August 30, 2026, with a packed schedule of high-stakes matches.
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Afternoon Session (Starts 13:00 CEST) – Last 16 Matches:
- Dirk van Duijvenbode vs. Rob Cross
- Danny Noppert vs. Ryan Searle
- Jonny Clayton vs. Ross Smith
- Keane Barry vs. Dave Chisnall
- Gian van Veen vs. Jermaine Wattimena
- Stephen Bunting vs. Gary Anderson
- Michael van Gerwen vs. Nathan Aspinall
- Josh Rock vs. Chris Dobey
Evening Session (Starts 19:00 CEST) – Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and Final:
The winners from the Last 16 will battle it out in the Quarter-finals, leading to the Semi-finals and ultimately the grand Final to crown the champion.
Prize Money Breakdown
A total prize fund of £230,000 is up for grabs at the Hungarian Darts Trophy. The champion will walk away with a hefty £35,000. It’s important to note that for the prize money to count towards a player’s official ranking, they must win their first match in the tournament.
- Winner: £35,000
- Runner-Up: £15,000
- Semi-finalists: £10,000 each
- Quarter-finalists: £8,000 each
- Last 16: £5,000 each
- Second Round: £3,500 each
- First Round: £2,000 each
Fans can catch all the action live on various sports streaming services and channels, ensuring you don’t miss any of the thrilling moments from Budapest.
Source: Based on an article from dartn.de.
