The World Grand Prix witnessed an electrifying second day of Last 16 action, as top contenders Luke Humphries and James Wade secured their quarterfinal berths with dominant performances. Adding to the drama, debutant Niels Zonneveld stunned darts legend Gary Anderson, while Gian van Veen fought valiantly to progress. Get ready for a thrilling Quarterfinals stage featuring a mix of established stars and exciting new talent.
The intensity at the World Grand Prix reached new heights on the second day of the Last 16, delivering a mix of expected victories and a significant upset. Four more players punched their tickets to the quarterfinals, setting the stage for an unmissable next round.
Match Highlights: Favorites Flex Their Muscles
Luke Humphries Dominates Jermaine Wattimena
World Number Two, Luke “Cool Hand Luke” Humphries, showcased exactly why he’s a tournament favorite, dispatching Jermaine Wattimena with a convincing 3-0 victory. Despite not being entirely satisfied with his overall play, Humphries’ clinical finishing was undeniable. He hit 23 out of 33 attempts on doubles, boasting an exceptional 74% success rate on his crucial starting doubles.
Wattimena had his chances, notably missing two set-darts on double 20 in the first set, allowing Humphries to snatch it with an 88-finish. Humphries continued his strong form, securing the second set 3-1 and closing out the match with a decisive 15-darter in the third, leaving Wattimena unable to keep pace.
James Wade’s Masterclass Against Stephen Bunting
James “The Machine” Wade delivered a textbook performance, overcoming Stephen “The Bullet” Bunting 3-1. Wade was in formidable form, consistently opening legs with perfect 160 scores on four consecutive occasions. Bunting, despite a strong 96.29 average – impressive for the double-in format – could only manage to claim one set against Wade’s relentless precision.
Wade quickly established control, taking the first set 3-1. He maintained his composure to win the second set 3-2. Although Bunting fought back to take the third set 3-0, Wade swiftly reasserted his dominance in the final set, securing it with two 14-darters and a cool 81-checkout to seal his quarterfinal spot.
Rising Stars and Surprises
Niels Zonneveld’s Dream Debut: Gary Anderson Eliminated
In the biggest upset of the night, debutant Niels “Triple Z” Zonneveld continued his fairytale run, defeating darts legend Gary “The Flying Scotsman” Anderson 3-1. Anderson struggled to find his rhythm throughout the match, while Zonneveld displayed nerves of steel.
Zonneveld took the crucial first set 3-2, capitalising on Anderson’s slow start. He then stormed through the second set with powerful legs (14, 14, and 16 darts) to go 2-0 up. Although Anderson managed to claw back the third set 3-1, Zonneveld halted any comeback hopes with a crucial 109-checkout. The Dutchman ultimately closed out the match, sealing a memorable victory and a spot in the quarterfinals.
Gian van Veen Fights Back Against Ryan Searle
World Number Three, Gian van Veen, showed incredible resilience to come from behind and defeat Ryan “Heavy Metal” Searle 3-2, earning his first-ever World Grand Prix quarterfinal appearance. The match was a high-quality affair, with both players showcasing flashes of brilliance.
Van Veen took the first set, highlighted by a stunning 152-checkout. Searle responded strongly, including a magnificent 167-checkout, to take the second and third sets, putting van Veen 2-1 down. However, Searle’s momentum waned in the fourth set, allowing van Veen to fight back and level the match. In the decisive fifth set, van Veen capitalized on Searle’s “double-trouble” to secure a 20-dart break and then closed out the match in 14 darts, completing a remarkable comeback.
What’s Next: Quarterfinals Await!
The excitement continues on Friday, October 2, 2026, with all four quarterfinal matches scheduled to take place. Prepare for another evening of high-stakes darts!
- Nathan Aspinall vs. Ryan Joyce
- Gerwyn Price vs. Jonny Clayton
- Luke Humphries vs. Niels Zonneveld (A clash of favorite vs. debutant!)
- Gian van Veen vs. James Wade (A battle of rising star vs. experienced machine!)
Understanding the World Grand Prix: Unique Format & Stakes
The World Grand Prix stands out as the only major darts tournament played under the challenging “Double-In/Double-Out” format. This means:
- To start scoring points in any leg, a player must first hit a double segment on the board.
- To win a leg, a player must also finish by hitting a double.
- This format demands exceptional precision and adds an extra layer of difficulty and excitement.
Tournament Structure:
- Round 1: Best of 3 Sets
- Round 2 (Last 16): Best of 5 Sets
- Quarterfinals: Best of 5 Sets
- Semifinals: Best of 9 Sets
- Final: Best of 11 Sets
Each set is played as “Best of 5 Legs,” with no tie-break rules.
Prize Money Breakdown (Total: £750,000):
- Winner: £150,000
- Runner-Up: £80,000
- Semifinalists: £50,000
- Quarterfinalists: £35,000
- Last 16: £20,000
- First Round: £7,500
Source: Based on an article from dartn.de.
