In a groundbreaking achievement at the Dutch Open 2026, the formidable Turkish duo of Zehra Gemi and Aysegül Karagöz have etched their names into history, securing the Ladies’ Pairs title. This marks the first time a main prize at this prestigious tournament has gone to Turkey, as they overcame the strong challenge of Priscilla Steenbergen and Jo Rolls in a thrilling final.
A Journey to Victory
The Women’s Darts Federation (WDF) circuit continues to witness remarkable talent, and the latest chapter unfolded dramatically at the Dutch Open 2026. The ladies’ pairs tournament saw an incredible performance from Turkey’s Zehra Gemi and Aysegül Karagöz, who not only clinched the title but also made a significant historical mark.
Their path to the final was anything but easy. The Turkish pair demonstrated their prowess early on Friday, delivering a stunning upset. They eliminated the highly experienced and formidable Dutch duo of Aileen de Graaf and Anca Zijlstra, a victory that immediately signaled their intent and set the stage for their eventual triumph.
The Grand Final Showdown
The final match pitted Gemi and Karagöz against the talented pairing of Priscilla Steenbergen and Jo Rolls. The atmosphere was electric, with both teams vying for the coveted title.
- Early Nerves, Swift Recovery: The Turkish duo started with a touch of hesitation on their finishing doubles in the first leg. However, they quickly composed themselves, finding double one to secure the crucial opening leg.
- Taking Control: A rapid 32-dart leg (meaning they completed the 701-point game in just 32 throws) followed, firmly putting the initiative in the hands of the young Turkish darting stars. This impressive display of scoring and finishing demonstrated their capability under pressure.
- Steenbergen’s Flash of Brilliance: While Steenbergen managed an excellent 114-finish in a subsequent leg, she and Rolls found themselves struggling to match the consistent scoring power of their opponents throughout the match.
- Match Point and History: The momentum stayed with Gemi and Karagöz. With incredible composure, Zehra Gemi threw a crucial 16-point checkout to put them on match point. Just moments later, she expertly found double four, sealing the victory and securing a new major title in her blossoming career.
This momentous win not only added another significant achievement to Zehra Gemi’s impressive resume – already a WDF Girls’ World Champion – but also marked an unprecedented moment for Turkish darts. For the very first time, a main prize at the prestigious Dutch Open Darts tournament is heading to Turkey.
Final Statistics
The averages reflect the competitive nature of the final:
- Priscilla Steenbergen / Jo Rolls: 63.23
- Zehra Gemi / Aysegül Karagöz: 64.51
Their slightly higher average underscores the consistent pressure the Turkish duo applied, ultimately leading them to a well-deserved victory and a place in darts history.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
