Darts Dreams Ignite: Four Unstoppable Players Qualify for the UK Open!
The UK Open, often hailed as the ‘FA Cup of Darts,’ is celebrated for its uniquely open and democratic format, allowing both established pros and aspiring amateurs to battle for glory. This past weekend, the intense qualifying rounds saw four exceptional players — Graham ‘The Gambler’ Usher, Simon ‘The Mirror Man’ Stevenson, Callum Goffin, and Ron ‘The Bomb’ Meulenkamp — demonstrate incredible skill and determination to secure their coveted spots in Minehead. Their journeys were marked by dominant performances, nail-biting finishes, and impressive comebacks, proving that raw talent and unwavering focus are the true currency on the road to the sport’s biggest stages.
The Road to Minehead: Four Stars Emerge
The path to the UK Open finals in Minehead is notoriously challenging, a true test where reputations count for little and sheer audacity is rewarded. This weekend, four men emphatically broke through, each with a unique story of triumph.
Graham ‘The Gambler’ Usher Rolls the Dice
In Worksop, Graham Usher, known as ‘The Gambler,’ proved he still has what it takes. A former Tour Card holder with a history of competitive spirit, Usher navigated the Manton Sports Club qualifiers with clinical precision. His journey included methodical victories over Sam Edmonds, Alex Jacques, and Jacob Gwynne, culminating in a decisive 4-1 win against Tom Sawford. This impressive run marks his fifth appearance at the UK Open, showcasing his enduring talent and ability to perform under pressure. When ‘The Gambler’ bets on himself, the house rarely wins.
Simon ‘The Mirror Man’ Stevenson Reflects Success
Plymouth witnessed the masterful return of Simon Stevenson, dubbed ‘The Mirror Man,’ a former UK Open quarter-finalist. Stevenson engineered his comeback to darts’ ‘FA Cup’ with a performance of ruthless clarity. His semi-final demolition of John Mann saw him average an impressive near-99 score, before he surgically dismantled Finlay Cleave with a dominant 7-1 victory to book his trip to Somerset. For ‘The Mirror Man,’ reflection truly became reality as he heads back to the bright lights of the main stage.
Callum Goffin’s Velocity Through Chorlton
Further north, Callum Goffin tore through Chorlton with the speed and determination of a man destined for greatness. His initial four matches were a masterclass in statistical suffocation, conceding a mere two legs in total. A thrilling deciding-leg skirmish with William Leonard only sharpened his appetite, setting the stage for a confident 5-3 dismissal of Kevin Lane. This victory confirmed his well-deserved return to the grand stage, promising an exciting performance.
Ron ‘The Bomb’ Meulenkamp Explodes into Action
And then there was Ron ‘The Bomb’ Meulenkamp, who didn’t just qualify, he exploded into action. The Dutchman bulldozed his way through the Liverpool qualifiers, including a powerful 5-1 victory over Josh Bury in the winner-takes-all final. Earlier, he had extinguished World Championship qualifier David Davies in the semi-finals. Remarkably, Meulenkamp survived three separate deciding-leg duels en route, demonstrating an incredible ability to absorb pressure and neutralise nerves. This will be his eighth UK Open appearance, a testament to his explosive timing and vast experience.
Your Chance to Qualify: Upcoming Events
The amateur pathway to the UK Open continues, offering more opportunities for darts enthusiasts to join the ranks of these qualifiers.
Remaining Qualifiers:
- Harlow: This weekend (February 21st)
- London Victoria: This weekend (February 22nd)
- Community Qualifiers conclude in Enderby and Alfreton: Dates TBC
Entry remains open for these events, priced at £15. Participants must be over 16 years old and no Tour Card is required. Remember, the entry door closes at 17:00 GMT the day prior to each event, and some venues may have under-18 restrictions. Check local listings for exact details and ensure you don’t miss your shot at glory!
Confirmed Qualifiers So Far (2026 UK Open):
PDC in the Community Qualifiers:
- Fleetwood (Flights Sports & Social Club): Jack Todd
- Newport (OutOut Bar): Clive Langford
- Syston (The Syston Brookside Club): Kyle Gilding
- Kings Worthy (Worthies Sports & Social Club): Callum Francis
- Plymouth (Legends Darts Lounge): Simon Stevenson
- Worksop (Manton Sports Club): Graham Usher
- Enderby (Enderby & District Social Club): TBC
- Alfreton (Somercotes Snooker Club): TBC
Rileys Amateur Qualifiers:
- Solihull: Neil Wild
- Aberdeen: Sean Ryan
- Coventry: Daniel Lee
- Norwich: Oliver King
- Chorlton: Callum Goffin
- Liverpool: Ron Meulenkamp
- Harlow: TBC
- London Victoria: TBC
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
