Benjamin Pratnemer, a former football player and current soccer coach from Maribor, Slovenia, has made history by becoming the first player from the former Yugoslavia to secure a coveted PDC Tour Card. This incredible achievement came after four days of consistent, high-level play at Q-School in Kalkar, Germany. Known as ‘The Star’, Pratnemer has already graced the Ally Pally stage and competed in the WDF World Championship, now setting his sights on ambitious plans for his professional darts career in 2026.
A Historic First: Securing the PDC Tour Card
The darts world recently witnessed a groundbreaking moment as Benjamin Pratnemer, hailing from Maribor, Slovenia, achieved what no other player from the former Yugoslav states had before: winning a PDC Tour Card. This highly sought-after status grants him access to all professional tournaments on the PDC Pro Tour for the next two years, opening doors to major televised events.
Pratnemer earned his place on the final day of Q-School in Kalkar, Germany, showcasing exceptional consistency and skill over four grueling days. He notably overcame several established names in the sport, proving his mettle and solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor.
From Football Pitches to the Oche: Pratnemer’s Unique Journey
Benjamin Pratnemer’s sporting background is as unique as his recent achievement. Before dedicating himself fully to professional darts, he was a professional football player. Today, he remains actively involved in sports as a pro-soccer coach. This dual career highlights his deep understanding of competitive environments and the discipline required to succeed at the highest level.
Already a Familiar Face on the Big Stages
Despite his recent Tour Card breakthrough, Pratnemer is no stranger to the biggest stages in darts:
- PDC World Championship (Ally Pally) 2020: Pratnemer made his debut at the iconic Alexandra Palace, the home of the PDC World Championship. He faced Justin Pipe, a seasoned PDC player known for his steady style, in a tight match, ultimately losing 2-3. This early experience against top-tier competition proved invaluable.
- WDF World Championship (2023-2025): Known by his nickname ‘The Star’, Benjamin has also been a prominent figure at the WDF World Championship, competing in three consecutive years. These appearances demonstrate his consistent presence and performance at an elite amateur and semi-professional level before his full PDC breakthrough.
The Road Ahead: Big Plans for 2026
With his PDC Tour Card secured, Benjamin Pratnemer is looking forward to 2026 with immense ambition. This card means he can now compete regularly against the world’s best darts players, gaining crucial experience and ranking points. His plans include:
- Competing in all PDC Players Championship events.
- Aiming for qualification to major televised tournaments like the UK Open, European Tour events, and ultimately, the PDC World Championship again.
- Further establishing himself on the professional circuit and climbing the PDC Order of Merit.
Pratnemer’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and talent, marking a new chapter for darts in Slovenia and the broader region.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
