Paddy Power World Darts Championship: Days 1-3 Recap

The action is well underway at Alexandra Palace, and the first three days of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship have delivered unforgettable moments. From reigning champion Luke Humphries kicking off his title defence with dominance to Peter Wright proving that "class is permanent," it’s been a thrilling start for Red Dragon and Winmau players.

Day 1: Humphries Begins Title Defence in Style

Reigning champion Luke Humphries set the tone for his title defence with an emphatic straight-sets victory over Thibault Tricole. Humphries showcased his composure and precision, winning nine consecutive legs, including a spectacular 160 checkout. Although he admitted the performance wasn’t his best, the result was all that mattered.

“It’s one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever experienced,” Humphries shared. “Now, I can focus on the next stage of the tournament and really think about being World Champion again.”

Day 1 Highlights:

• Thibault Tricole 3-1 Joe Comito – R1
• Luke Humphries 3-0 Thibault Tricole (3-0, 3-0, 3-0) – R2

Day 2: Dominance from Welsh Stars

Robert Owen, aka "Stack Attack," stormed back from a sluggish start to defeat Niels Zonneveld 3-1, capped by a brilliant 121 checkout. The Welshman’s resilience and consistency earned him a spot in the second round against Gabriel Clemens.

Meanwhile former world champion Gerwyn Price, won relatively comfortably against Keane Barry in straight sets. Price’s measured performance bolstered his confidence as he looks to reclaim his spot at the top of the darts world.

I know how well I can play. I just want to prove to myself that I’ve still got it,” claimed Price, who will play Joe Cullen, Wessel Nijman or Cameron Carolissen after the Christmas break.

“I put myself under a lot of pressure tonight, but this is where the tournament starts for me,” Price said after his win.

Day 2 Highlights:

• Robert Owen 3-1 Niels Zonneveld (0-3, 3-2, 3-1, 3-2) – R1
• Gerwyn Price 3-0 Keane Barry (3-0, 3-1, 3-1) – R2

Day 3: Wright’s Winning Return

Peter Wright declared ‘class is permanent’ after kicking off his bid for a third Paddy Power World Darts Championship title. The two-time World Champion overcame a spirited challenge from Wesley Plaisier to secure a hard-fought 3-1 victory. Wright leaned on the electrifying crowd and his champion mentality to edge out a dramatic fourth set and book his spot in the third round.

“The crowd got me through that whole match,” admitted Wright – one of eight World Champions in this year’s tournament.

“The support did spur me on. I didn’t want to let them down, I didn’t want to let my family down, and thankfully I got away with it tonight… I’ve got to step up for the next match, but I’m ready for the challenge.”

Elsewhere, Ryan Meikle delivered a standout performance by defeating Fallon Sherrock in a deciding set, landing three ton-plus checkouts in a gripping contest.

Day 3 Highlights:

• Ryan Meikle 3-2 Fallon Sherrock (0-3, 3-0, 3-0, 2-3, 3-1) – R1
• Peter Wright 3-1 Wesley Plaisier (3-2, 3-2, 0-3, 3-2) – R2

Coming up this week

Looking ahead, the action continues for Red Dragon and Winmau players on Thursday afternoon, Nitin Kumar faces Martin Lukeman, while Friday evening will feature thrilling matches as Florian Hempel, William O’Connor, and Michael van Gerwen (MVG), all Winmau players, take to the stage.

With strong starts from Humphries, Price, and Wright, the Red Dragon and Winmau players are well-positioned to make deep runs in the tournament. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds at Alexandra Palace!

*Photos credited to PDC*