The highly anticipated draw for the Dutch Open Darts 2026 has been released, setting the stage for an electrifying display of young talent. This comprehensive guide provides a crucial head start for darts enthusiasts, highlighting the key players expected to dominate in the Aspirants, Juniors, and Girls’ tournaments. We’ve delved into each ‘sheet’ – representing one dartboard group – to identify the future stars poised for success at this prestigious event. Read on for a breakdown of who to watch, or get a quick overview of the top contenders right here!
The Dutch Open Darts is renowned as one of Europe’s largest and most exciting darts tournaments, attracting thousands of players from across the globe. Beyond the senior competitions, the youth tournaments are a vital platform for emerging talent, offering young players invaluable experience and a chance to shine on a big stage. The 2026 edition promises fierce competition, and with the draw now public, we can identify the rising stars who are strong contenders in their respective categories.
Aspirants Tournament: The Youngest Challengers (U14)
The Aspirants tournament showcases the youngest competitors (typically under 14), where raw talent and burgeoning skill come to the forefront. These players are often taking their first major steps in competitive darts, making every match an exciting watch.
Favorites by Sheet:
- Sheet 1: Johnny Hartwig
- Sheet 2: Dave Jongs
- Sheet 3: Vito Wojaczyk
- Sheet 4: Kyle Satariano, Bjorn van Walsem, Sten Peters
- Sheet 5: Denny Zollinger
- Sheet 6: (No declared favorites)
- Sheet 7: (No declared favorites)
- Sheet 8: Aaron de Ridder, Justas Franzke
- Sheet 9: Brik Ghesquière
- Sheet 10: Bentley Exmann
- Sheet 11: Bruno Willi Sauer
- Sheet 12: Jordi Naber
- Sheet 13: Emiel Claes, Ryan Schilperoord
- Sheet 14: Bastiaan van Helbergen, Sidney Askarian
- Sheet 15: Koen Jansen, John Mevius
- Sheet 16: Tiago Longa y Galdo
While a complete draw features many more players, these individuals have been singled out as strong contenders who could go deep into the tournament.
Juniors Tournament: The Next Generation (U18)
The Juniors category (typically under 18) often features players with more refined techniques and competitive experience. Many of these young men are already making names for themselves in national leagues and junior circuits, making this tournament a crucial stepping stone.
Favorites by Sheet:
- Sheet 1: Kendji Steinbach, Henry Mundanjohl
- Sheet 2: Quinn Sneeboer, Darren Zaeske
- Sheet 3: Nicardo Pieper, Julian Beifus, Jaco van Dijk
- Sheet 4: Vinny Stassen, Lönnes Martensen, Mattis Verschaeve
- Sheet 5: Les Paeshuyse, Siem van den Elzen, TJ West
- Sheet 6: Ruben Baalmans, Ramses Hermus, Joe van Gend
- Sheet 7: Milan Brinkman, Matteo Gesquière, Sepp Visscher
- Sheet 8: Milan Vanuytrecht, Bastian Esser, Simon Sterrenburg
- Sheet 9: Oden Ollevier, Luuk de Waal, Sem Sijbrands
- Sheet 10: Lenny Schlüter, Lukas Kenis, Noel Mätze
- Sheet 11: Daan Toxopeus, Jason Gossens, Sam Schilder
- Sheet 12: Thees Kogelnik, Vince van Eynde
- Sheet 13: Bradley van der Velden, Kai Burger, Keano Wup, Luciano Marchetti
- Sheet 14: Kay Schuurbiers, Niklas Hespos
- Sheet 15: Ilyano Snoeys, Gijs Blom
- Sheet 16: Leopold Averbeck, Ryan Schipper, Tomas Mikulka
The depth of talent in the Juniors tournament is particularly impressive, with many sheets featuring multiple strong contenders, promising thrilling matchups.
Girls Tournament: Rising Female Stars
The Girls tournament is a testament to the growing participation and talent in women’s darts. These young women are paving the way for future generations and showcasing incredible skill and composure under pressure.
Favorites by Sheet:
- Sheet 1: Paige Pauling
- Sheet 2: Olivia Heaton, Aysegül Karagöz
- Sheet 3: Marie Huber, Eline Kersbergen, Fardau de Jong
- Sheet 4: Jentl Fransen
- Sheet 5: Ruby Grey
- Sheet 6: Phoebe Vermeulen, Michelle Krug
- Sheet 7: Merve Hummel, Kimberly Kersbergen
- Sheet 8: Zehra Gemi, Panagiota Kentzidou
With fewer sheets, the competition among the girls is concentrated, ensuring every match will be a high-stakes affair. Keep an eye on these names as they battle for the prestigious Dutch Open title.
What is a “Sheet” in Darts Tournaments?
For those new to darts tournament structures, a “sheet” typically refers to a specific dartboard or a small group of dartboards where a subset of the overall tournament draw competes. Essentially, it’s a mini-bracket within the larger tournament. Players on the same sheet will play their initial matches against each other, with one winner eventually emerging from that sheet to progress to a later stage of the main draw.
The Dutch Open Darts 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for youth darts. These highlighted players represent the cream of the crop in their respective categories. While upsets are always possible, these are the names to watch as they aim for glory. Stay tuned for what promises to be an incredible showcase of future darts champions!
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
