The European Darts Grand Prix 2026 in Sindelfingen kicked off its second round with an unforgettable afternoon session. The biggest headline saw two-time defending champion Gary Anderson shockingly ousted by German hopeful Niko Springer in a thrilling 6-3 encounter. Beyond this major upset, rising talent Wessel Nijman delivered a sensational performance with a 104 average, while other top contenders like Stephen Bunting, Josh Rock, and Chris Dobey secured their spots, setting the stage for an electrifying evening session and Sunday’s finals.
Defending Champion Gary Anderson Stunned by Niko Springer
The biggest shock of the afternoon came as German challenger Niko Springer defeated two-time defending champion Gary Anderson 6-3. Anderson, who had lifted the trophy in Sindelfingen for the past two years, found his title defense cut short in his very first match. Springer’s superior scoring proved to be the decisive factor.
- Springer broke Anderson’s throw in the opening leg, setting an early tone.
- Anderson responded with a brilliant 121 checkout, but Springer maintained pressure with checkouts of 69 and 107, achieving a perfect double percentage early on.
- Despite both players struggling to hold their throw at times, Springer secured another break to lead by three legs.
- Crucially, Springer closed out the match with a 14-darter after missing his first match dart, sealing a momentous victory.
Springer will now face Dutch player Danny Noppert in the Last 16.
Nijman Dominates, Other Stars Advance
While Anderson’s exit grabbed headlines, several other players delivered impressive performances:
- Wessel Nijman’s Masterclass: The standout player of the afternoon was undoubtedly Wessel Nijman. He opened his campaign for a second European Tour title this year with an emphatic 6-2 victory over Ryan Searle, boasting a remarkable 104 average. Nijman started strong with clinical checkouts of 76 and 105, and despite a brief challenge from Searle (11-darter), Nijman accelerated his scoring to pull away for a clear win.
- Noppert’s Close Call: Danny Noppert had a surprisingly tough battle against Oskar Lukasiak, eventually winning 6-5 in a deciding leg. Lukasiak had chances to extend his lead, but Noppert fought back, clinching the match with a strong 14-darter.
- Wattimena’s Strong Performance: Jermaine Wattimena defeated fellow Dutchman Kevin Doets 6-3 in a high-quality encounter. Wattimena showcased an impressive surge, including an 11-darter and a 13-dart leg, to secure his spot.
- Bunting and Rock Secure Wins: Premier League stars Stephen Bunting and Josh Rock both progressed with 6-3 victories. Bunting overcame Mickey Mansell, aided by a crucial 124 checkout, while Rock’s sensational 158 checkout in the first leg set him on the path to victory against Keane Barry.
- Dobey’s Decisive Display: Chris Dobey comfortably defeated Andrew Gilding 6-2. Dobey demonstrated his class, including seven perfect darts on his way to a 4-1 lead and an 11-darter to seal the win, despite a surprise 164 finish from Gilding.
- Ratajski’s Gritty Win: Krzysztof Ratajski kicked off the afternoon with a hard-fought 6-4 win against Mike De Decker. After a shaky start with both players struggling on doubles, Ratajski established an early lead before De Decker mounted a comeback. However, Ratajski capitalized on his opportunities in the final legs to secure his progression.
Looking Ahead: Evening Session & Prize Money
The European Darts Grand Prix 2026 continues with the evening session, completing the second round. Top players such as Gerwyn Price, Michael van Gerwen, and Jonny Clayton are scheduled to play, promising more thrilling darting action as they battle for a spot in Sunday’s knockout stages.
The tournament offers a substantial prize fund, totaling £230,000. Here’s how the prize money is distributed:
- Winner: £35,000
- Runner-Up: £15,000
- Semi-Finalists: £10,000
- Quarter-Finalists: £8,000
- Last 16: £5,000
- Second Round: £3,500
- First Round: £2,000
Important Note on Rankings: For their prize money to count towards the PDC Order of Merit, European Tour Order of Merit, and Pro Tour Order of Merit, all 32 seeded players (who qualify through these rankings) must win their opening match. If they lose their first game, they still receive the prize money, but it does not contribute to their ranking points. This rule emphasizes the importance of a strong start for seeded players.
Source: Based on an article from dartn.de.
