Day one of Q-School 2026 delivered an electrifying start, with four darts players securing their coveted PDC Pro Tour Cards and launching their professional careers. Germany’s Arno Merk and Poland’s Filip Bereza emerged victorious from the European Q-School, while Wales’ Rhys Griffin and Australia’s Adam Leek dominated the UK event. The day was packed with high drama, nerve-wracking finishes, and a clear indication that the battle for professional status is fiercer than ever. For those who didn’t clinch a card today, the fight continues, with many prominent names still strongly positioned on the Order of Merit.
European Q-School: Merk’s Historic Double and Bereza’s Breakthrough
The European Q-School in Kalkar witnessed a truly memorable performance from German sharpshooter Arno Merk. He not only secured his two-year PDC Pro Tour Card but did so with a rare “double” achievement on home soil. Merk became the very first player across both Q-School venues this year to guarantee his spot on the prestigious Pro Tour.
A Unique Journey to Professional Status
Merk’s journey has been unique. Just a month prior, he famously opened the 2026 PDC World Championship, defeating Kim Huybrechts. While that win didn’t come with prize money or confetti, it marked a significant symbolic step. Today, that symbol transformed into a tangible reality. Merk sealed his fate in a nerve-shredding last-leg decider against Dutchman Jeffrey Sparidaans, holding his composure to land the winning dart and transition from hopeful ambition to professional certainty.
Following closely, Filip Bereza of Poland also earned his golden ticket, breaking another Dutch heart in a dramatic fashion. Bereza, perhaps not yet a household name, navigated a brutal sudden-death leg to overcome former World Matchplay semi-finalist Jeffrey de Zwaan. It was a clinical, decisive finish that will undoubtedly be etched in De Zwaan’s memory.
Still in the Hunt: The “Jeffreys” and Other Contenders
Despite their semi-final losses, both Jeffrey Sparidaans and Jeffrey de Zwaan are far from out of contention. They currently sit prominently at the top of the European Q-School Order of Merit with five points each. This provides them with an enviable head start, and their ability to maintain this position as the pressure intensifies will be crucial in the coming days.
Other notable players well-positioned include:
- Andreas Harrysson (Sweden): Fresh from his impressive run at Ally Pally, Harrysson secured four valuable points, keeping him firmly in the hunt despite a quarter-final exit to Sparidaans.
- Jimmy van Schie (Netherlands): The reigning WDF World Champion banked three points, maintaining momentum even after bowing out in the last-16 to Damien Mol.
UK Q-School: Griffin’s Dominance and Leek’s Gritty Win
Across the North Sea in Milton Keynes, the intensity was equally high. Young Welshman Rhys Griffin stormed back into the professional ranks with an emphatic performance. He delivered a stunning whitewash victory over former Grand Slam champion Scott Waites in the semi-final, a clear statement of intent. Earlier, Griffin had showcased his immense talent by dismantling fellow countryman Derek Coulson with a blistering 103.89 average – a display of pure authority.
Completing the quartet of day one Tour Card winners was Australia’s Adam Leek. He survived a gripping duel with impressive Norfolk youngster Tyler Thorpe, ensuring Australia’s presence on the Pro Tour extends beyond Damon Heta. The contest went the full distance, with Thorpe briefly threatening a comeback at 5-5. Leek, having missed four match darts, finally slammed the door shut with his fifth, securing his Pro Tour status in a moment of sheer relief and redemption.
The Bronzed Adonis Fights On
Darts legend Steve Beaton, famously known as “The Bronzed Adonis,” saw his journey pause at the last-16 stage. However, he rolls into tomorrow armed with four crucial points and very much “staying alive.” Another solid day could yet propel him back towards a return that many fans would enthusiastically welcome.
What’s Next for Q-School 2026?
From Milton Keynes to Kalkar, the windows of opportunity are narrowing, and the margins are thinning. The air is growing heavier with consequence as Q-School waits for no one. Tomorrow, the blade sharpens once more, as players battle for crucial Order of Merit points or direct Tour Card qualification, with dreams hanging in the balance.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
