The 2025 PDC World Darts Championship is set for its second round showdown on Monday, December 23, marking the last day of play before the festive break. Fans of the sport will have their eyes on Gian van Veen as he seeks to carry the Dutch flag forward, continuing the remarkable run from his country at Alexandra Palace this year.
With the proceedings starting at 13:30 local time, the stage is primed for some thrilling darts action. Van Veen, currently ranked 28th globally, is favored to win his match against Germany's Ricardo Pietreczko, who secured his spot by defeating Zong Xiaochen earlier this week. Pietreczko had previously emerged as the unexpected champion of the German Darts Championship and now faces Van Veen, who aims to advance to the third round.
Van Veen's anticipation is heightened by his impressive track record, recently shining at the Grand Slam of Darts where he reached the quarter-finals and showcased his talent. Fans have noted his electrifying presence, especially with the debut of his new entrance song, “Losse Pols,” produced by the talented trio of Maradonnie, Marco Schuitmaker, and Russo. It was particularly important for the PDC to vet the song, ensuring it aligns with their theme of abstaining from controversial subjects such as alcohol.
“This is the first time for me at Alexandra Palace, and I’m feeling the excitement. I just hope to perform at my best,” said Van Veen, who opened the evening session on December 23.
With the match scheduled for not before 20:10, attention is also turning to other thrilling fixtures of the evening. The lineup includes significant matchups like Daryl Gurney taking on Florian Hempel, followed by Dave Chisnall facing Ricky Evans. The headlining event of the night will feature the former World Champion Rob Cross, as he goes against Scott Williams, who astounded audiences last year by reaching the semi-finals.
Reflecting on the monumental gathering of Dutch darts players, 2025 marks the first time the Netherlands has entered the tournament with such strength. Sixteen players made the trip to London with the hopes of glory, and so far, three—Michael van Gerwen, Jermaine Wattimena, and Kevin Doets—have secured their spots beyond the upcoming round.
Despite this strength, the pressure rests heavily on Van Veen, who is seen as the last hope for Netherlands to add to the success achieved by his peers. He certainly has the potential; bookmakers see him lined up as the significant favorite for the match against Pietreczko.
This high-stakes matchup presents Van Veen with the opportunity not just to progress but to solidify his status as one of the world's top young talents. Pietreczko, ranked just outside the seeded players at 34, is no slouch either, having previously demonstrated his capability by securing notable wins over more seasoned competitors.
“I know what’s at stake,” Van Veen added. “I feel ready to seize the moment, and there are no excuses left. It’s time to go out there and enjoy myself.”
The excitement of the PDC World Championship matches is palpable, as fans across the globe prepare to tune in for live coverage of the action. Sky Sports and DAZN have both committed to delivering market-leading coverage, ensuring viewers won’t miss any of the high-octane moments.
Interestingly, this championship not only provides nail-biting competition but also fuels discussions about the new generation of darting talent. With players like Van Veen making significant impressions, the fascination with who will grace the stages of future tournaments and possibly dominate the field looms large.
The atmosphere surrounding the Alexandra Palace is electric. Between matches, fans are treated to not only the games themselves but also to lively commentary and analysis, keeping them engaged before the next darts superstar makes their bid for glory.
With the holiday season approaching, the stakes couldn’t be higher as players battle for supremacy at the World Darts Championship. The matches will not only grant bragging rights but also establish legacies as these players strive to carve their names among darts royalty.
On December 23, each dart thrown could lead to history being made. Whether Gian van Veen exceeds expectations and advances will set the tone for the remainder of the tournament and create stories for fans to relay for years to come. Stay tuned for what promises to be yet another captivating day at the darts.
