Story perspectives

2026 World Darts Championship: Littler Leads Early Victories

12/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 Paddy Power World Darts Championship is underway at Alexandra Palace in London, from December 11, 2025, to January 3, 2026.
Luke Littler is the defending champion and the favorite to win.
Littler defeated Rob Cross 4-2.
Justin Hood defeated Josh Rock 4-0.
Krzysztof Ratajski advanced to the quarter-finals.

History

Historical Context

The inaugural World Darts Championship, held from December 28, 1993, to January 2, 1994, marked the formation of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) after a split from the British Darts Organisation (BDO). Dennis Priestley won the first title, defeating Phil Taylor. Since then, the PDC has transformed darts into a major televised sport, culminating in record prize funds and global sponsorships, including the upcoming 2026 championship at Alexandra Palace.

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Story summary

The 2026 Paddy Power World Darts Championship is underway at Alexandra Palace in London, from December 11, 2025, to January 3, 2026.
Luke Littler is the defending champion and the favorite to win.
Littler defeated Rob Cross 4-2.
Justin Hood defeated Josh Rock 4-0.
Krzysztof Ratajski advanced to the quarter-finals.

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