Since its inception in 1998, the PDC World Grand Prix has stood out in the darts calendar, not just for its thrilling matches but for its unique “double-in, double-out” format. This demanding rule requires players to start and end each leg by hitting a double, testing precision from the very first dart. Over the years, it has delivered unforgettable drama, from Phil Taylor’s unparalleled dominance and groundbreaking nine-dart finishes to the rise of new champions like Michael van Gerwen and a new generation of stars.
The World Grand Prix: A Unique Challenge
The PDC World Grand Prix is unlike any other major darts tournament. Its defining feature is the “double-in, double-out” rule. This means:
- Players must hit a double segment on the dartboard to start scoring in a leg.
- Once they’ve scored enough points, they must then hit another double to finish the leg.
This format adds an immense layer of pressure and skill, making every single dart critical. What might seem like a simple game becomes a true test of nerve and accuracy, captivating fans for over two decades.
Historic Milestones and Legendary Performances
The Inaugural Triumph: Phil Taylor’s First Crown (1998)
The World Grand Prix kicked off in 1998, establishing itself immediately as a distinctive event. Phil Taylor claimed the very first title, defeating Rod Harrington 13-8 in a final that featured a short-lived best-of-three legs per set format. The modest £9,000 winner’s cheque and the innovative double-start rule set the stage for a tournament that would become one of the PDC’s most iconic majors.
Phil Taylor’s Unmatched Dominance: Eleven Titles
No player embodies the World Grand Prix more than Phil “The Power” Taylor. His mastery of the double-in, double-out format is legendary.
- By 2011, Taylor already held a record number of titles.
- His victory over Brendan Dolan that year secured his tenth World Grand Prix crown.
- He would go on to claim an incredible eleventh title in 2013.
Taylor’s ability to consistently conquer this awkward format for over a decade remains unparalleled. His eleven titles are still five clear of the next best player, a testament to his unique skill and mental fortitude.
“The History Maker”: Brendan Dolan’s Perfect Nine-Darter (2011)
The 2011 tournament wasn’t just about Taylor’s dominance; it also witnessed one of darts’ most extraordinary feats. Northern Ireland’s Brendan Dolan achieved the impossible in his semi-final clash against James Wade.
He opened the leg with double 20, followed by two maximum 180s, and finished a 161 checkout on the bullseye. This was:
- The first nine-darter ever recorded under the World Grand Prix’s double-in, double-out rules.
- A moment that earned Dolan the lasting nickname “The History Maker.”
Despite this incredible achievement, Dolan ultimately lost to Taylor in the final, but his name was forever etched in darts history.
Unbelievable Double Perfection: Two Nine-Darters in One Match (2014)
Just three years later, the seemingly impossible happened again – not once, but twice in a single match! In a thrilling second-round encounter in Dublin:
- James Wade struck the first nine-darter.
- Remarkably, Robert Thornton responded with his own perfect leg in the same match, having buried his mother earlier that day – an emotional and incredible display of focus.
This remains the only time two different players have thrown perfect legs in a single World Grand Prix match, highlighting the extreme rarity and skill required in the double-start format.
Michael van Gerwen’s Breakthrough and Reign
Following Taylor’s era, a new force emerged to master the unique demands of the World Grand Prix: Michael van Gerwen. “Mighty Mike” announced himself as Taylor’s successor by winning the 2012 title.
He has since amassed an impressive collection of World Grand Prix crowns:
- Six titles in total: 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2022.
Van Gerwen’s success solidified his position as the clear second-most successful player in the event’s history, proving that the double-start challenge could be conquered by a new generation of scoring and finishing talent.
The Modern Era: New Stars and Unpredictable Triumphs
The more recent history of the World Grand Prix has seen a diverse array of champions, showcasing the tournament’s enduring ability to crown both established stars and emerging talents.
Recent winners include:
- Robert Thornton (2015), who famously defeated Van Gerwen.
- Daryl Gurney (2017).
- Gerwyn Price (2020).
- Jonny Clayton (2021).
- Luke Humphries (2023).
- Mike De Decker (2024), a significant breakthrough.
- Luke Littler (2025), with an emphatic victory over Humphries.
These victories highlight that the World Grand Prix continues to reward players who can adapt to its unique demands, consistently delivering fresh narratives and crowning both unlikely heroes and future legends.
Conclusion: Drama and Precision Endure
From Phil Taylor’s early stranglehold to the rare perfection of nine-dart finishes and the rise of a new generation of champions, the World Grand Prix has consistently delivered drama that only its distinctive double-in, double-out format can produce. It remains a must-watch event, a true test of skill, and a cornerstone of the professional darts calendar.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
