The WDF Welsh Open 2026 promises a thrilling darts spectacle, featuring three major events: the Welsh Open, Classic (both WDF Silver), and Masters (WDF Bronze). This weekend, all eyes will be on three standout players: Fallon Sherrock, the ‘Queen of the Palace’ fresh off a Women’s Series win; Mitchell Lawrie, the 15-year-old prodigy already dominating the senior circuit; and Dom Taylor, a talented player making a determined comeback after facing suspensions. Expect electrifying performances and compelling storylines from these darting talents.
This bank holiday weekend is set to be a darting feast in Weston-Super-Mare, as the World Darts Federation (WDF) hosts three prestigious tournaments. These events offer crucial ranking points and a platform for both established stars and emerging talents.
The Tournaments at a Glance
- Welsh Open: A WDF Silver event, attracting top-tier competition.
- Welsh Classic: Also a WDF Silver event, offering significant ranking opportunities.
- Welsh Masters: A WDF Bronze event, providing a chance for players to climb the rankings.
With three distinct competitions, the stage is set for a weekend of high-stakes darts. Here are three of the biggest names you absolutely need to watch.
Fallon Sherrock: The Queen of the Palace Reigns On
The biggest name set to compete in the ladies singles event is undoubtedly Fallon Sherrock, widely known as ‘The Queen of the Palace’. Sherrock arrives in Weston-Super-Mare with momentum, fresh from a significant victory.
- Recent Triumph: Last week, she secured a Women’s Series title, winning Event 18 with a dominant 5-0 victory over Lisa Ashton in the final, boasting an impressive 81.68 average.
- Consistent Form: Her other Women’s Series performances included reaching the quarter-finals in Event 20 (losing to Aileen de Graaf) and the last 16 in both Event 17 (also losing to de Graaf) and Event 19 (losing to Lisa Ashton).
Sherrock’s global fame stems from her groundbreaking run at the 2020 PDC World Darts Championship. There, she made history by defeating Ted Evetts and Mensur Suljovic, becoming the first woman to win matches at the event. This incredible achievement not only broke records but also significantly elevated the profile of women’s darts worldwide. She continued to impress with a memorable run to the quarter-finals of the 2021 Grand Slam of Darts, where she narrowly lost 16-13 to eventual champion Peter Wright.
Mitchell Lawrie: Darts’ Next Teenage Sensation?
If you haven’t heard of Mitchell Lawrie yet, prepare to be amazed. At just 15 years old, this Scottish prodigy is rapidly emerging as the next big thing in professional darts.
- Unbelievable Success: Since 2025, Lawrie has already amassed eight senior WDF titles, including last year’s prestigious Welsh Open.
- Junior & Senior Dominance: In 2025, he also secured the JDC World Championship. Remarkably, at the WDF World Championship, he not only reached the senior final but also won the youth tournament concurrently, showcasing his extraordinary talent across age groups.
Lawrie has drawn strong comparisons to Luke Littler, whose meteoric rise captivated the darts world. Like Littler, Lawrie combines youthful exuberance with an astonishing level of skill and composure. Keep a close eye on his matches this weekend; you’re likely witnessing a future superstar who will soon be a regular feature in major televised events.
Dom Taylor: A Story of Talent and Redemption
Dom Taylor’s career has been a rollercoaster of immense promise, controversial setbacks, and determined comebacks. His journey is a testament to both his talent and resilience.
- Past Setbacks: Taylor faced a one-month ban in 2024 for failing a drug test. A more severe six-month ban followed during the 2026 World Darts Championship for a second offence. This forced his withdrawal from the tournament, despite having already secured an opening-round victory against Oskar Lukasiak.
- Powerful Comeback: Since serving his second ban, Taylor has made a strong return to action. He recently won the Coventry Open at the start of the month, demonstrating his immense scoring power with an impressive 103.4 average in the final.
Taylor has clearly stated his ambition to enter PDC Q-School in 2027, aiming for a swift return to the professional tour. His performance at the Welsh Open will be a crucial step in proving his dedication and regaining his place among the elite.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
