Get ready for an electrifying week in darts! The professional circuit kicks into high gear with the highly anticipated launch of the PDC Pro Tour 2024, featuring the first two Players Championship events in Hildesheim, Germany. Alongside this, crucial qualifiers for the European Tour will take place. Fans can also look forward to the second thrilling night of Premier League Darts in Antwerp, where Dutch stars Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen aim to continue their strong start. Additionally, the DPNZ Pro Tour begins in New Zealand, the PDC Europe Next Gen continues with unique formats, and the WDF hosts ‘Silver’ category tournaments in Australia and Scotland. It’s a packed schedule, ensuring no darting moment is missed!
The Darts World Never Sleeps: A Global Overview
Darts is a sport that truly spans the globe, with professional tournaments happening almost year-round, from the Netherlands to New Zealand. This week, February 9th to February 15th, marks a significant period, bringing a host of key events that will shape the season.
PDC Pro Tour Kicks Off in Germany
The real darts year for the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) officially begins this week. Forget the World Series and the World Masters for a moment; the focus is on the Pro Tour.
- Monday, February 9th – Wednesday, February 11th: Players Championship 1 & 2 + European Tour Qualifier 1 & 2
- Location: Hildesheim, Germany
- Time: 1:00 PM (local time)
- Where to Follow: PDC.tv, tv.dartconnect.com
Players Championship 1 & 2 mark the exciting start of the Pro Tour 2024. A field of 128 players will step up to the oche in Hildesheim, including a strong contingent of Dutch talent like Gian van Veen, Michael van Gerwen, Danny Noppert, and Jermaine Wattimena. For many new Tour Card holders, Monday will be a momentous day as they make their debut, while seasoned players will be eager to shake off any lingering World Championship disappointment. Expect nothing short of spectacular action!
Wednesday is equally important, hosting the qualifying tournaments for the first two European Tour events of the year. These qualifiers are known for producing unexpected upsets and showcasing emerging talent, making them well worth following.
Premier League Darts Continues in Antwerp
After a thrilling opening night, the Premier League Darts circus rolls into Antwerp for its second week.
- Thursday, February 12th: Premier League Darts 2, Antwerp
- Time: 8:00 PM (local time)
- Where to Follow: Viaplay, pdc.tv/live-scores
The Netherlands had a dream start, with Michael van Gerwen and Gian van Veen both reaching the final of the opening night. This week, the action moves to the AFAS Dome in Antwerp. The evening kicks off with an absolute blockbuster match between Luke Littler and reigning World Champion Luke Humphries. Following this, Michael van Gerwen will face Josh Rock. The third match sees Jonny Clayton take on Stephen Bunting, before Gian van Veen concludes the quarter-finals against Gerwyn Price in what promises to be a packed arena. Don’t miss the drama!
DPNZ Pro Tour Launches in New Zealand
The darts year also begins for New Zealand with the first events on their Pro Tour circuit.
- Saturday, February 14th – Sunday, February 15th: DPNZ Pro Tour 1 & 2
- Time: 12:00 AM & 9:30 PM (local time)
- Where to Follow: Pdc.tv, tv.dartconnect.com
Held in the early hours of Saturday and Sunday for European viewers, the first two tournaments of the DPNZ Pro Tour take place in Wellington. Three names are expected to dominate attention: World Championship participant Jonny Tata, who aims for a return to Alexandra Palace, will face strong competition from Ben Robb and Haupai Puha. These initial events are crucial, as after 12 tournaments, the decision on who qualifies for major events will be made.
PDC Europe Next Gen Continues with Unique Formats
The darts action in Germany continues with the PDC Europe Next Gen circuit.
- Saturday, February 14th – Sunday, February 15th: PDC Europe Next Gen 3 & 4
- Time: 11:00 AM (local time)
- Location: Kalkar, Germany
- Where to Follow: Pdc.tv, tv.dartconnect.com
After a challenging opening weekend, which saw the first tournament affected by technical issues, the organizers are determined to deliver two strong tournaments this time. This weekend features unique playing formats:
- Saturday: The tournament will follow the style of the UK Open, meaning a new draw is conducted after every round, adding an element of surprise and excitement.
- Sunday: The ‘Master Out’ format will be used. In this variant, a leg can be finished by hitting a triple, not just a double, offering a different strategic challenge for players.
WDF Tour: Silver Events in Australia and Scotland
After a bustling Dutch Open, the World Darts Federation (WDF) circuit settles into a calmer rhythm this week, with three ‘Silver’ category tournaments.
- February 13th – 15th: South Australian Classic
- February 13th – 15th: Scottish Open & Scottish Classic
These events offer valuable ranking points for players looking to climb the WDF standings and qualify for future major tournaments.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
