The 2024 World Darts Championship, set to kick off at the iconic Alexandra Palace on December 21, is generating significant excitement as darting enthusiasts await two-and-a-half weeks of powerful competition leading up to the final on January 3. The tournament promises intense matches featuring world-class players, as well as notable narratives surrounding rising stars and seasoned competitors alike.
At the forefront of this year's championship is the thrilling rivalry between two standout talents, Luke Humphries and Luke Littler. The pair have proven to be the most formidable players on the tour, capturing six out of the eleven televised major titles between them this past year alone. The stage is set for another epic clash, as they are expected to meet again, but this time during the semi-finals, avoiding the possibility of facing off in the final again as they did earlier this year.
Littler's rise to fame has been meteoric as he became known after reaching the championship final on his debut last year. The young darting sensation has won ten titles throughout 2024 and has made headlines far beyond the sport's traditional fanbase, becoming the most searched sportsperson on Google for the year. With over 1.3 million followers on Instagram, Littler's stardom transcends the boundaries of darts as he captures the attention of younger audiences.
But the world of darts is not limited to the overwhelming spotlight of the Lukes. A key figure to watch this year is Fallon Sherrock, who is poised for what could be a tantalizing matchup against Littler. Sherrock, returning for her fifth stint on the Alexandra Palace stage, made headlines five years ago with her remarkable run to the third round. She hasn't yet snagged another World Championship victory since then but aims to turn her luck around with her first round battle against Ryan Meikle.
Another exciting storyline is the historic debut of Noa-Lynn van Leuven, who will be the first trans player to compete on the Alexandra Palace stage. Transitioning prior to her entry to the torunament, van Leuven qualified through her accomplishments at the Women’s Series, marking her place as not just another competitor but also as part of darts' growing inclusivity. She will face Kevin Doets in the opening round, and should she emerge victorious, it would be seen as one of the landmark triumphs of the championship.
While the tournament will undoubtedly showcase up-and-coming talents and established names alike, questions linger about the future of the World Darts Championship venue itself. Barry Hearn, the PDC chief, has hinted at the potential for relocating the tournament to accommodate growing public interest and demand. The overwhelming ticket sales for the 2025 tournament—linked not only to the competitive scene but also to players like Littler—suggest there's momentum for expansion.
Michael van Gerwen, often viewed as one of the game's greats, faces pressure as he navigates this championship following what many would describe as disappointing performances this past year. Alongside him, other champions like Michael Smith, Gerwyn Price, and Peter Wright similarly aim to reclaim positions at the pinnacle of the sport. So, they have their work cut out for them as they vie for top spots against newer, feisty competitors eyeing breathtaking upsets.
With intense matchups, budding rivalries, and historic narratives weaving through the tournament, the 2024 World Darts Championship promises to be as electrifying as ever. Fans expect to witness high stakes and high drama, especially when the action begins at the legendary Ally Pally.