God, I've been glued to my screen all weekend. The International Darts Open is wrapping up TONIGHT and I'm still recovering from yesterday's matches. My buddy Tom bet me €50 that van Barneveld would make the semis (ha! poor Raymond) and now he's dodging my texts.
The world rankings king Luke Humphries is still alive and hunting. Cool Hand Luke hasn't managed to snag a European Tour win this year, which is honestly shocking given his form. I watched him demolish Ross Smith 6-2 earlier today - the man was absolutely clinical.
One notable absence? The teenage phenom Luke Littler isn't in Germany. Part of me wonders if he's just taking a breather after that insane run he's been on since the Worlds. Can't blame teh kid - I'd be exhausted too.
Remember When Schindler Shocked Everyone?
Last year's tournament gave us one of those moments that remind me why I love this sport. Martin Schindler, playing on home soil, captured his first PDC title by taking down Gerwyn Price 8-5 in the final. I was actually there - the arena went absolutely bonkers.
Price had won this thing THREE straight times before Schindler ended the streak. The Iceman looked devastated.
Schindler's been on fire so far this weekend. That 6-0 demolition of Dimitri van den Bergh was brutal to watch... like witnessing someone kick a puppy. He's clearly feeding off the home crowd energy.
Where the hell can you actually watch this thing?
If you're in the UK and frantically searching your TV guide - stop. This tournament isn't televised here, which is frankly ridiculous in 2025.
Your options? Shell out for PDCTV. I finally broke down and bought the annual subscription back in January ($49.99 well spent), but you can grab a three-day pass for just $4.99 if you're only interested in this tournament.
Listen. I know some of you will hunt for dodgy streams. I can't officially recommend that, but... we've all been there.
Saturday's Madness
The second round yesterday delivered some genuine shockers. James Wade got bounced by Cameron Menzies, which I did NOT see coming. My WhatsApp group exploded after that one.
And how about Raymond van Barneveld rolling back the years to dismantle Jonny Clayton 6-2? Barney looked like it was 2007 again. The five-time world champ still has that magic sometimes.
Cross was a no-show against Schindler - apparently dealing with some kind of illness. Disappointing for fans, but these things happen.
Tonight's Showdowns
As I write this, we're down to the business end. Humphries just dispatched Nijman 6-3 in the quarters, and Bunting made quick work of Sedlacek 6-2.
We're still waiting on Rock vs Aspinall and Schindler vs Wright to complete our semifinal lineup. My gut says we're heading for a Humphries-Schindler final, but I've been spectacularly wrong before.
Back in 2018, I confidently told everyone in my local that Gary Anderson would win the Matchplay. He lost first round. My friends still bring it up.
The Sachsen Arena looks absolutely packed on the stream. German darts crowds have this unique energy - less singing than the UK crowds, but somehow more intense when the big moments happen.
I've spent way too much time watching this tournament instead of fixing that leaky faucet my wife has been reminding me about for three weeks. Worth it though.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight darts should beginners use?
For beginners, I generally recommend starting with medium-weight darts between 21-24 grams. This range offers enough heft to fly straight without requiring too much force, but isn't so heavy that it becomes tiring during longer practice sessions.
How often should I replace my dartboard?
A quality sisal dartboard should last anywhere from 1-3 years with regular play, though this varies dramatically based on usage and care. Professional-grade boards like Winmau Blade 5 or Target Unicorn typically outlast budget options by a significant margin.
How do I improve my dart throwing technique?
Improving your dart technique comes down to consistency and deliberate practice. First, establish a comfortable stance—feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly forward. Your weight should be balanced and stable, not leaning forward or back.
What are "flights" and "stems" and do they really matter?
Flights and stems (also called shafts) are the components that stabilize your dart during flight, and yes, they absolutely matter—though perhaps not in the way beginners often think.
Can you recommend some fun dart games for parties?
Absolutely! Darts doesn't have to be all about 501 and cricket. For parties, you want games that keep everyone involved, accommodate different skill levels, and create some friendly competition.
Is it worth spending more money on expensive darts?
The question of dart investment really depends on your commitment level and budget. You don't need to spend a fortune, but there's definitely a quality threshold worth crossing.
Statistics
- The distance from the throwing line (oche) to the dartboard is precisely 7 feet 9.25 inches (2.37 meters).
- In 2016, Michael van Gerwen set a world record for the highest three-dart average in a major tournament at 123.40.
- The Women's World Darts Championship was established in 2001, with Trina Gulliver winning 10 titles.
- Phil Taylor has hit a record 22 televised nine-dart finishes throughout his professional career.
- A perfect leg of 501 can be completed in nine darts, known in the sport as a "nine-darter."
- Statistical analysis reveals that professional players throw darts at an average speed of 40-60 miles per hour.
- A professional dart weighs between 18-50 grams, with most players preferring 21-24 gram darts.
- The standard height from the floor to the bullseye on a dartboard is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters).
External Links
How To
Common Problems & How I Fixed Them
Inconsistent grouping was my biggest issue for years. The solution? I recorded my throw in slow motion and noticed I was dropping my elbow at different heights. Once I fixed that, my grouping tightened up immediately.
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