The World Darts Championship 2025 is heating up as it reaches its second day of action on December 23, showcasing some of the best talents and stirring rivalries within the sport. This afternoon's session will feature four riveting matches, igniting competition and setting the stage for unexpected upsets.
Two of the most anticipated clashes include Krzysztof Ratajski facing off against Alexis Toylo and Andrew Gilding going up against Martin Lukeman. Ratajski, known for his consistent performances, enters the arena against Toylo, who pulled off a surprise win against seasoned competitor Richard Veenstra. Analysts predict Ratajski will employ his experience to secure victory with a forecasted score of 3-1.
“Ratajski tends to average in the mid-90s and he’s quite hard to crack,” said one commentator. “He’s got the experience from being a quarter-finalist at the worlds.” Toylo, on the other hand, averaged around 86 against Veenstra, raising concerns about his ability to contest against Ratajski's high-level play.
Following the Ratajski-Toylo match, Andrew Gilding is set to face Martin Lukeman. Gilding is also favored to win with predictions leaning toward another 3-1 score. Lukeman had previously voiced concerns about his health affecting his gameplay, as he only managed to average 87 against Nitin Kumar.
“Lukeman showed some promise but has struggled historically at the World Championship,” remarked another analyst, emphasizing Gilding’s track record including reaching the quarter-finals of the World Matchplay this year.
Later, the rising star Josh Rock takes on Rhys Griffin, the latter coming off an encouraging performance against Karel Sedlacek. Rock, described as one of the outside picks for the tournament, is projected to win 3-1 as he seeks to build on his successful Pro Tour campaign this year.
Griffin, thrilled to be on such a prominent stage, has taken full advantage of his qualifications. “I’m just buzzing after my last match; I’m ready to go again,” Griffin commented, radiantly optimistic about his chances.
The final match of the afternoon session features Jonny Clayton against Mickey Mansell. Clayton, currently sitting at No. 7 globally, is expected to dominate due to his consistent performance throughout the year. Predictions lean toward Clayton winning, with additional prop bets on him hitting over one 180 score per set.
“Clayton has had multiple quarter-finals and finals recently, so he’s riding high on confidence,” stated another expert, pointing out Mansell's struggle to break past the second round historically.
This day at the World Darts Championship is not only thrilling for the players but also significant for the German contingent, with Ricardo Pietreczko and Florian Hempel qualified for their matches later this evening. Their presence brings heightened hope for German darts fans, especially following Gabriel Clemens’ early exit.
“The focus now shifts to Pietreczko and Hempel,” emphasized their coach. “They have already won their first matches and will look to build upon their success.”
The stakes are undoubtedly high as players vie for the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy and the significant prize purse of £2.5 million—a staggering increase from previous tournaments. The tournament's depth and competitiveness are on full display, with fans excited to tune in.
Viewers can catch all the action live, as the tournament is accessible through multiple streaming platforms, including DAZN and Sport1. DAZN offers comprehensive coverage, broadcasting every match live, ensuring fans won’t miss any of the darting drama.
With the conclusion of matches today before the festive break, anticipation builds for what promises to be another electrifying session later tonight as the best dart players head toward the conclusion of the second round and lay the groundwork for the intense matches to follow post-Christmas.
