UPDATE: Daryl Gurney is set for an electrifying showdown against women’s star Beau Greaves in the first round of the 2026 PDC World Championship. The draw was just announced, revealing this highly anticipated match at Alexandra Palace, London, starting on December 11, 2026.
This clash is generating buzz as Gurney, a seasoned competitor and two-time quarter-finalist, takes on Greaves, a 21-year-old sensation who has taken the women’s tour by storm. Greaves is not only the current dominant force, boasting an impressive 44 titles including 16 in 2025, but she also recently defeated world number one Luke Littler to reach the PDC World Youth Championship final.
Meanwhile, Littler will defend his title against Lithuanian Darius Labanauskas in a match that promises to be filled with excitement. The 18-year-old has claimed multiple titles this year, including the UK Open and Grand Slam of Darts, and has risen to become the world’s number one player.
In other first-round matchups, Josh Rock, the 11th seed and a rising star at just 24, will face two-time PDC Women’s Series winner Gemma Hayter. Rock, who reached the last 16 in the 2023 championship, looks to make a deeper run this year.
Steve Lennon from Carlow, aged 31, is also in the spotlight as he prepares to take on Australian Damon Heta. Lennon’s best result at Alexandra Palace was reaching the last 32 in 2022, and he will need to deliver a strong performance to advance.
Additionally, Keane Barry, competing for the seventh time at the championship, faces Tim Pusey in a pivotal first-round match. Barry, aged 23, has yet to break past the second round, making this an essential opportunity for him to shine.
Limerick’s William O’Connor will take on Polish qualifier Krzysztof Kciuk, while Fermanagh’s Brendan Dolan, a two-time quarter-finalist, is set to face English qualifier Tavis Dudeney.
Among the tournament favorites, Luke Humphries has drawn Ted Evetts, while the legendary Michael van Gerwen opens his campaign against Mitsuhiko Tatsunami.
The action kicks off at Alexandra Palace on December 11, culminating with the final on January 3, 2027. Fans and competitors alike are eagerly anticipating what promises to be a thrilling series of matches.
Stay tuned for all the latest developments as the World Darts Championship unfolds, and don’t miss any of the first-round ties that include:
– Luke Littler vs Darius Labanauskas
– Daryl Gurney vs Beau Greaves
– Josh Rock vs Gemma Hayter
– Michael van Gerwen vs Mitsuhiko Tatsunami
This championship is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, with both established stars and rising talents ready to make their mark. Share your thoughts on this dramatic draw and who you think will take home the title!
