The tension is palpable as the PDC Women’s Series reaches its dramatic conclusion this weekend in Wigan (June 20-21). This is the last chance for players to secure a coveted spot in the prestigious Betfred Women’s World Matchplay in Blackpool on July 26. With only the top eight players in the rankings earning a qualification berth, and a significant prize of £2,500 for each event winner, the competition is fierce. Expect thrilling matches as established stars like Lisa Ashton, Beau Greaves, and Fallon Sherrock compete alongside ambitious challengers, all desperate to clinch their place in darts history.
The Ultimate Showdown: What’s at Stake?
The Robin Park Leisure Centre in Wigan is set to host the final four events (13-16) of the PDC Women’s Series. This isn’t just about winning individual tournaments; it’s about qualifying for one of the most prestigious events in women’s darts: the Betfred Women’s World Matchplay.
The stakes are incredibly high, with a prized spot in the Blackpool tournament on July 26 awaiting the successful contenders.
Qualification Explained
Qualification for the Women’s World Matchplay is straightforward but intensely competitive:
- Only the top eight players on the cumulative 12-month Women’s Series rankings after Event 16 will secure their berths.
- Players earn ranking points (and prize money) from each Women’s Series event.
- The total prize money accumulated over the past year determines a player’s standing.
- A single event win offers a substantial £2,500 top prize, which can dramatically alter a player’s position in the rankings.
The Contenders: Who’s in the Mix?
The field is packed with talent, featuring some of the biggest names in women’s darts:
- Reigning champion Lisa Ashton is expected to lead the charge.
- Joining her are two-time winner Beau Greaves and the tournament’s inaugural 2022 champion, Fallon Sherrock.
- Rising star Gemma Hayter currently holds an impressive 4th place, positioned behind darting giants Greaves, Ashton, and Hedman, and maintaining a crucial £300 lead over Fallon Sherrock.
- Our contributor Natalie Gilbert is also noted as being “within striking distance,” indicating a real chance for her to climb into a qualifying spot.
The Battle for the Eighth Spot: Extreme Drama!
The most intense battle is undoubtedly for the final qualification position. Currently, Finland’s Kirsi Viinikainen holds 8th place with £3,800.
However, the drama intensifies because the prize for winning just one event (£2,500) is almost enough to bridge the gap for players ranked as low as 30th! This means that any player with a strong weekend performance could leapfrog many competitors and snatch a coveted spot in Blackpool. It truly is a winner-takes-all scenario for many ambitious darters.
Event Details: Don’t Miss the Action!
When & Where:
- Saturday, June 20: Events 13 & 14
- Sunday, June 21: Events 15 & 16
- All events take place at the Robin Park Leisure Centre in Wigan.
How to Watch:
Fans eager to follow all the crucial moments can tune into live coverage available on PDCTV. Action is scheduled to start daily from approximately 10:00 BST on both Saturday and Sunday.
How to Enter (for players):
Players still wishing to compete in these decisive events can enter:
- Entry Fee: £30 per event.
- Entry Deadline: Entries for Events 13-16 close at 14:00 BST on Thursday, June 18.
- New Players: Must register their details first. This registration and verification process can take up to 48 hours, so prompt action is advised. Once verified, players can log in and enter the relevant tournaments.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
