Michael van Gerwen produces highest average in Players Championship Finals history

Michael van Gerwen averages a remarkable 118.52 in 6-1 demolition of Ross Smith at Players Championship Finals; we’re back for the World Darts Championship from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 26/11/23 8:17am


Michael van Gerwen produced a staggering 118.52 average during his demolition of Ross Smith in Minehead on Saturday

Michael van Gerwen produced the highest average in Players Championship Finals history en route to a showdown with Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals.

The reigning champion struck a staggering 118.52 average thanks to legs of 10, 18, 12, 11, 12 and 12 darts in his 6-1 second-round demolition of former European Champion Ross Smith.

Van Gerwen was less spectacular in his third-round victory against Mario Vandenbogaerde, despite winning six of the last eight legs to run out a 10-6 winner against the Belgian.

Six weeks after winning his first major darts title, Luke Humphries secured another with victory in the Grand Slam of Darts - could he now go one step further with victory at the World Championships?

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Six weeks after winning his first major darts title, Luke Humphries secured another with victory in the Grand Slam of Darts – could he now go one step further with victory at the World Championships?

Six weeks after winning his first major darts title, Luke Humphries secured another with victory in the Grand Slam of Darts – could he now go one step further with victory at the World Championships?

“When things go well, I know how well I can play,” declared Van Gerwen, who is eyeing his first premier televised ranking title of 2023.

“It is nice to produce a game like this, because you know you’ve got that game in you. You want to show this [type of performance] time after time, but you also need a good opponent!

“It was a battle against Mario, but the most important thing is that I won, and going through to the quarter-finals gives me an extra boost, and I feel good about it.”

Van Gerwen’s last eight opponent will be Stephen Bunting, after the Grand Slam semi-finalist followed up his demolition of Gian van Veen with a 10-8 victory over 2012 runner-up Kim Huybrechts.

Bunting averaged almost 106 and landed a trio of ton-plus finishes to dispatch Dutch star Van Veen, before rallying from 8-7 down to deny the Belgian – aided by five maximums.

However, Van Gerwen remains on a potential collision course with Luke Humphries, who saw off Radek Szaganski and Ryan Searle to maintain his bid for a third televised triumph in seven weeks.

Humphries whitewashed a shell-shocked Szaganski in just nine minutes, averaging 107 and converting all six of his attempts at double.

Humphries and Gary Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them in a Grand Slam of Darts quarter-final epic

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Humphries and Gary Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them in a Grand Slam of Darts quarter-final epic

Humphries and Gary Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them in a Grand Slam of Darts quarter-final epic

The newly crowned World Grand Prix and Grand Slam champion then delivered another ton-topping average against Searle, fending off a late rally from the Somerset star to triumph 10-7.

“Ryan is so underrated. He’s one of the toughest players to beat,” claimed Humphries, having raced into a 6-1 lead before sealing his progress with a 103 average.

“Ryan came back well, but I don’t panic any more. I’ve had a great couple of months, I’m relaxed and I believe in my own ability.

“These are tough days. They require a lot of energy and focus, but I’ve been able to draw on my experience from the European Tour, and I’m hoping I can go all the way again.”

Humphries will renew his rivalry with James Wade in the last eight, after the ten-time TV title winner overcame Steve Lennon and Dimitri Van den Bergh on Saturday.

Earlier in the day, top seed Gerwyn Price suffered a chastening 6-1 defeat to Huybrechts in round two, while 2014 champion Gary Anderson was edged out by Van den Bergh at the same stage of the event.

Leeds United fan Humphries combines his favourite sports by giving the players a darting masterclass

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Leeds United fan Humphries combines his favourite sports by giving the players a darting masterclass

Leeds United fan Humphries combines his favourite sports by giving the players a darting masterclass

The tournament will conclude on Sunday, with the afternoon’s quarter-finals followed by the semi-finals and final later in the evening.

The evening session will also see the PDC World Youth Championship final take place, as emerging Dutchman Gian van Veen takes on teenage sensation Luke Littler for the coveted title.

2023 Players Championship Finals
Saturday November 25
Afternoon Session
Second Round
Main Stage

Dimitri Van den Bergh 6-5 Gary Anderson
Damon Heta 6-4 Kevin Doets
Kim Huybrechts 6-1 Gerwyn Price
Michael van Gerwen 6-1 Ross Smith
Dave Chisnall 6-4 Chris Dobey
Luke Humphries 6-0 Radek Szaganski
Jermaine Wattimena 6-5 Richard Veenstra

Stage Two
Stephen Bunting 6-1 Gian van Veen
Ryan Searle 6-3 Ricardo Pietreczko
Mario Vandenbogaerde 6-2 Matt Campbell
Brendan Dolan 6-5 Maik Kuivenhoven
Luke Woodhouse 6-3 Rob Cross
Gabriel Clemens 6-3 Josh Rock
Ryan Joyce 6-4 Joe Cullen
Niels Zonneveld 6-2 Jonny Clayton
James Wade 6-2 Steve Lennon

Evening Session
Third Round
Main Stage

Stephen Bunting 10-8 Kim Huybrechts
Michael van Gerwen 10-6 Mario Vandenbogaerde
Luke Humphries 10-7 Ryan Searle
James Wade 10-6 Dimitri Van den Bergh

Stage Two
Damon Heta 10-8 Brendan Dolan
Luke Woodhouse 10-8 Dave Chisnall
Gabriel Clemens 10-1 Niels Zonneveld
Ryan Joyce 10-7 Jermaine Wattimena

Sunday November 26
Afternoon Session (1245-1700 GMT)
Quarter-Finals

Stephen Bunting vs Michael van Gerwen
Luke Woodhouse vs Gabriel Clemens
James Wade vs Luke Humphries
Damon Heta vs Ryan Joyce
Best of 19 legs

Evening Session (1900-2300 GMT)
Semi-Finals
Bunting/Van Gerwen vs Woodhouse/Clemens
Wade/Humphries vs Heta/Joyce
Best of 21 legs

PDC World Youth Championship Final
Gian van Veen v Luke Littler
Best of 11 legs

Final
Bunting/Van Gerwen/Woodhouse/Clemens vs Wade/Humphries/Heta/Joyce

When is the World Darts Championship?

The World Darts Championship starts on Friday, December 15 - live on Sky Sports!

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The World Darts Championship starts on Friday, December 15 – live on Sky Sports!

The World Darts Championship starts on Friday, December 15 – live on Sky Sports!

The sport’s biggest event will be held from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 as 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace.

You can watch all the action live on our dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel.

Watch the World Darts Championship from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 – live on Sky Sports. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW



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Grand Slam of Darts: Rob Cross sets up semi-final showdown with Stephen Bunting in Wolverhampton

Rob Cross wins 10 legs in a row to defeat Damon Heta while Stephen Bunting ends Stowe Buntz’s dreams in Wolverhampton; Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts at the WV Active Aldersley – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 18/11/23 11:10pm


Rob Cross defeated Damon Heta to reach the Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals in Wolverhampton on Saturday night

A classy performance from Rob Cross set up a semi-final showdown with Stephen Bunting at the Grand Slam of Darts in Wolverhampton.

Cross, the 2018 World Champion, ran away with his quarter-final match with Australian No 1 Damon Heta after claiming 10 legs in a row from 6-6 to win, while an in-form Bunting defeated American newcomer Stowe Buntz 16-8.

Grand Slam of Darts: Saturday’s Quarter-Finals

Stowe Buntz8-16Stephen Bunting
Damon Heta6-16Rob Cross

Watch the moment Cross reached the Grand Slam semi-finals for first time in his career

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Watch the moment Cross reached the Grand Slam semi-finals for first time in his career

Watch the moment Cross reached the Grand Slam semi-finals for first time in his career

There will be a new name on the Eric Bristow Trophy in 2023, and Cross continued his bid for a fifth premier TV title with a comprehensive victory over Heta.

“Unfortunately Damon didn’t play how he could,” admitted Cross, who averaged 98 and pinned 46 per cent of his attempts at double to cap off another superb performance.

“I was averaging 97 at one stage and I didn’t even feel like I had turned up yet. In my head it was horrific! I couldn’t find that first dart.

“I wasn’t happy with my performance at the start, but I’ll take the win, wake up tomorrow and it’s a different day.

“Having the semi-finals and final in one day is going to be tough. I’ve never experienced it before so I can’t say I’ve had that luxury, but I feel in a really good place with my game.”

Cross extended his lead over Heta with this 116 finish

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Cross extended his lead over Heta with this 116 finish

Cross extended his lead over Heta with this 116 finish

Heta’s combination finishing was a feature of his last-16 victory against Michael van Gerwen on Thursday, and he continued from where he left off in the early exchanges against ‘Voltage’.

The former World Cup winner landed 120, 64 and 72 checkouts as the opening six legs were shared, although Cross seized the initiative at the second interval, producing a timely 12-darter to establish a 6-4 buffer.

When he wakes up in the morning and realises it's permanent marker.... Heta signs a fan's head during his walk-on

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When he wakes up in the morning and realises it’s permanent marker…. Heta signs a fan’s head during his walk-on

When he wakes up in the morning and realises it’s permanent marker…. Heta signs a fan’s head during his walk-on

Heta hit back to restore parity, but Cross punished a mid-game slump from the Australian to seize control, following a run of three straight legs with 116 and 89 checkouts to stretch his lead to 11-6.

Cross continued his relentless march towards victory as Heta’s game unravelled, and the Hastings thrower extended his winning run to 10 legs to ease through to his first Grand Slam semi-final.

The 2018 World Champion will now take on Bunting for a place in Sunday evening’s decider, after the Merseyside man produced a superb display of doubling to end Buntz’s remarkable campaign.

The American debutant won the pair’s Group E tussle last weekend, but Bunting avenged that result in some style, converting 62 per cent of his attempts at double to break new ground in Wolverhampton.

Bunting made it through to the semi-finals of the Grand Slam after beating Stowe Buntz

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Bunting made it through to the semi-finals of the Grand Slam after beating Stowe Buntz

Bunting made it through to the semi-finals of the Grand Slam after beating Stowe Buntz

“It means the world,” reflected the 38-year-old, who averaged 96 and crashed in six maximums to win through to his first premier televised semi-final since October 2021.

“There were some nerves tonight. I was a heavy favourite going into that game, and I still didn’t know what to expect from Stowe.

“I said to him at the end of the match, he’s a friend now. We’ve had two games on the stage, and I wish him all the best for the World Championship and the rest of his career.

“I’ve been putting in a lot of effort behind the scenes, but I couldn’t do it without the crowd cheering me on. I really appreciate the support and I cannot wait for the semi-finals now.”

Bunting turned on the style with finishes of 101 and 126

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Bunting turned on the style with finishes of 101 and 126

Bunting turned on the style with finishes of 101 and 126

Buntz missed darts at double for 147, 106 and 146 combinations in the early exchanges, and Bunting – aided by back-to-back 13-darters – capitalised to race into an early 4-1 lead.

The CDC Continental Cup champion responded to level at 6-6, but Bunting suddenly found his range midway through the contest, winning seven of the next eight legs to seize control at 13-7.

Bunting’s 12-dart break of throw in leg 14 provided the spark, and he converted clinical 93, 101, 126 and 97 finishes during a blistering spell to move to the cusp of a place in the semi-finals.

The former Lakeside champion fired in another 12-darter on the bull to extend his lead to 14-7, and he continued the procession to end Buntz’s record-breaking run.

Grand Slam of Darts: Sunday’s Semi-Final Fixtures

James WadevsLuke Humphries
Stephen BuntingvsRob Cross

What’s happening on Sunday at the Grand Slam?

Luke Humphries will take on James Wade in the first semi-final on Sunday afternoon

Luke Humphries will take on James Wade in the first semi-final on Sunday afternoon

Sunday at the Grand Slam of Darts sees the semi-finals and final taking place on a bumper day of action.

Three-time finalist James Wade and Luke Humphries, who lifted TV silverware for the first time at October’s World Grand Prix, will meet in the first semi-final.

Wade defeated Josh Rock 16-15 in dramatic fashion, while Humphries beat Gary Anderson 16-14 on an unforgettable night of action.

And then four-time major winner Cross meets former Lakeside champion Bunting for a place in the evening’s showpiece, with a £150,000 top prize on offer to the eventual champion.

Wayne Mardle previews Sunday's Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals

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Wayne Mardle previews Sunday’s Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals

Wayne Mardle previews Sunday’s Grand Slam of Darts semi-finals

When are the World Championships?

The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 - live on Sky Sports Darts

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The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The sport’s biggest event will be held from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 as 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace.

You can watch all the action live on our dedicated Sky Sports Darts channel.

Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts at the Aldersley Leisure Village. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW



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Grand Slam of Darts: Luke Humphries edges Gary Anderson in a classic as James Wade beats Josh Rock

Luke Humphries edges out Gary Anderson while James Wade uses all his experience to defeat young Josh Rock in the quarter-finals; Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts at the WV Active Aldersley all this week – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 17/11/23 11:17pm


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The best of the action from the first two quarter-finals at the Grand Slam of Darts

The best of the action from the first two quarter-finals at the Grand Slam of Darts

Luke Humphries edged out Scottish legend Gary Anderson in a Grand Slam of Darts classic as James Wade ruined Josh Rock’s Wolverhampton dreams.

Humphries beat ‘The Flying Scotsman’ Anderson 16-14, while Wade defeated Rock 16-15 in dramatic fashion on an unforgettable night of action in Wolverhampton.

Grand Slam of Darts: Friday’s Quarter-Finals

James Wade16-15Josh Rock
Luke Humphries16-14Gary Anderson

Humphries and Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them

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Humphries and Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them

Humphries and Anderson both showed their finishing power as they hit SEVEN ton-plus checkouts between them

Humphries hits this outrageous 170 checkout during his win

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Humphries hits this outrageous 170 checkout during his win

Humphries hits this outrageous 170 checkout during his win

An astonishing display from Humphries saw him average 103.56 to come out on top of a high-class encounter with Anderson.

Humphries, who lifted TV silverware for the first time at October’s World Grand Prix, came back from 1-5 and 4-8 down to reach the semi-finals for a second successive year.

“It was a pleasure to share the stage with one of the greats of the game at his best,” Humphries reflected. “It really meant a lot to me, we both played a fantastic game which was a privilege to be part of.

“I think I showed a lot of bottle at the end, Gary threw everything at me but I just kept digging in which is testament to the new temperament I’ve got.

“This has been a breakthrough year for me, it’s been the year I’ve always dreamed of, but I’m hungry for more.”

Humphries reacts to his victory over Anderson, saying he beat a 'legend' of the sport

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Humphries reacts to his victory over Anderson, saying he beat a ‘legend’ of the sport

Humphries reacts to his victory over Anderson, saying he beat a ‘legend’ of the sport

Despite a 170 checkout from Humphries in leg four, Anderson raced into a 5-1 lead as the two-time Grand Slam runner-up took control.

Back-to-back legs saw Humphries take a foothold in the contest, only for Anderson to respond with finishes of 150 and 128 to restore a four-leg cushion at 8-4.

Humphries took the next four legs, before taking the lead for the first time at 10-9.

A 132 checkout from Anderson saw him move back within a leg of Humphries at 11-12, and a 131 from the Scot saw him level the tie once again at 13-13.

Anderson then regained the lead at 14-13, before Humphries reeled off the last three legs to book his place in the final four.

James Wade shows grit and determination to made a stunning quarter-finals comeback against Josh Rock

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James Wade shows grit and determination to made a stunning quarter-finals comeback against Josh Rock

James Wade shows grit and determination to made a stunning quarter-finals comeback against Josh Rock

Wade produced a stunning fightback to defeat Rock, winning the last four legs to battle back from 12-15 down.

Rock missed his first match dart at double top to win 16-14, as Wade dig deep to take the contest the distance.

A nerve-wracking deciding leg saw Wade miss double 14 for a 121 checkout, which gave Rock the chance to win it on tops.

However, the Northern Irishman went high with all three darts, allowing Wade a look at 28.

The drama continued as Wade slipped into the double 11 bed to leave six and after seemingly blocking double three with his first dart, he found a way through to the target to seal a memorable win.

Wade reacts to his incredible comeback against Rock

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Wade reacts to his incredible comeback against Rock

Wade reacts to his incredible comeback against Rock

“To hit the doubles like I did at the end, there’s not many players who can do that,” said a jubilant Wade.

“I got a bit lucky, Josh was way better than me tonight. I’m still not at my best but I’ll always keep fighting.

“I don’t think there’s anyone better than me in those high-pressure situations, but I have to be good in those moments because other players score better than me.

“When I got the chance at double 14 I thought Christmas had come early, then I hit double 11 and thought ‘you silly boy!’ Thankfully I hit probably the best double three of my life.

“I enjoyed the interaction with the crowd tonight, they were brilliant to me and I’m looking forward to coming back on Sunday.”

Wade was quickest out of the traps, racing into a 3-0 lead, before Rock warmed to his task and levelled at 4-4.

Rock pinned this magical 156 finish in defeat to Wade

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Rock pinned this magical 156 finish in defeat to Wade

Rock pinned this magical 156 finish in defeat to Wade

Rock, who averaged 101.31 and produced three ton-plus checkouts in his first televised quarter-final, took the lead for the first time at 11-10.

The World Youth Champion took four of the next six legs to lead 15-12 to seemingly take control of the tie, only for ‘The Machine’ Wade to show his trademark resilience in winning the final four legs.

What happens on Saturday at the Grand Slam?

Australian No 1 Damon Heta will take on former World Champion Rob Cross for a spot in the semi-finals

Australian No 1 Damon Heta will take on former World Champion Rob Cross for a spot in the semi-finals

Saturday at the Grand Slam of Darts sees the quarter-finals from the bottom half of the draw. Damon Heta’s reward for defeating Michael van Gerwen is a showdown against former World Champion Rob Cross.

Stephen Bunting, who is in the Grand Slam quarter-finals for the first time since 2014, will renew his rivalry with Stowe Buntz.

Debutant Buntz became the first American player to progress to the Grand Slam quarter-finals after defeating UK Open champion Andrew Gilding.

Grand Slam of Darts: Saturday’s Quarter-Final Fixtures

Stowe BuntzvsStephen Bunting
Damon HetavsRob Cross

Live Grand Slam of Darts

November 18, 2023, 7:00pm

Live on Sky Sports Arena

When are the World Championships?

The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 - live on Sky Sports Darts

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The World Championship starts on Friday December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The sport’s biggest event will be held from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 as 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace.

Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts at the Aldersley Leisure Village. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW



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Grand Slam of Darts: Gary Anderson delivers a vintage display to knock out Gerwyn Price

Gary Anderson upsets Gerwyn Price while there were wins for Josh Rock, James Wade and a red-hot Luke Humphries; Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts at the WV Active Aldersley all this week – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 16/11/23 7:35am


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The best of the action on Day Five of the Grand Slam of Darts

The best of the action on Day Five of the Grand Slam of Darts

Gary Anderson delivered a vintage performance to knock out three-time winner Gerwyn Price 10-6 and reach the last eight of the Grand Slam of Darts.

Anderson, a two-time runner-up at the Grand Slam, stole the headlines after prevailing in a repeat of the pair’s infamous 2018 final defying eight 180s and a 103 average from Price to continue his bid for an elusive Grand Slam crown on a high-quality night of action in Wolverhampton.

Grand Slam of Darts: Second Round

Josh Rock10-5Krzysztof Ratajski
James Wade10-8Chris Dobey
Gerwyn Price6-10Gary Anderson
Luke Humphries10-7Ryan Searle

Gary Anderson said that's the most comfortable he's felt on a TV stage for a long time after beating Gerwyn Price

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Gary Anderson said that’s the most comfortable he’s felt on a TV stage for a long time after beating Gerwyn Price

Gary Anderson said that’s the most comfortable he’s felt on a TV stage for a long time after beating Gerwyn Price

Price – who registered consecutive 110 and 112 averages in the round-robin phase – drew first blood with a 14-dart hold, only for Anderson to seize the early initiative with a run of three straight legs.

The Welshman responded to restore parity at three apiece, only for ‘The Flying Scotsman’ to win four of the next five legs to regain control – sparked by a superb 12-dart break in leg seven.

Anderson maintained his charge by crashing in consecutive maximums to stretch his lead to 8-4, although Price refused to relent, registering back-to-back 13-darters to put himself back in contention.

Nevertheless, Anderson halted Price’s charge with a brilliant 11-darter in the penultimate leg, which he followed with a comfortable hold of throw via double six to cap off a virtuoso display.

“There’s life in the old dog yet,” quipped Anderson, who averaged 104.96 to set up a mouth-watering quarter-final showdown against Luke Humphries.

“Gerwyn has been playing very well. Hitting 110 and 112 averages is a hard job to do, but I’ve hit a 102 and now a 104, so we’re getting there.

“I’m playing well on the practice board, I’m playing well on the floor, and that was the most comfortable I’ve felt on the stage for a while.”

John Part says Anderson is going to relish taking on Humphries in the quarter-finals on Friday

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John Part says Anderson is going to relish taking on Humphries in the quarter-finals on Friday

John Part says Anderson is going to relish taking on Humphries in the quarter-finals on Friday

Humphries sealed his place in the last eight with a superb 10-7 victory against Ryan Searle, defying three ton-plus checkouts from the Somerset star to triumph with a 105 average and nine 180s.

Searle, who landed a sensational nine-darter to seal his last 16 berth on Monday, remarkably led 3-2 at the first interval, despite averaging 15 points less than Humphries in the opening session.

However, the World Grand Prix champion won six of the next seven legs to assume control at 8-4, with a magnificent ten-darter in leg 12 typifying his relentless scoring power.

Searle – featuring in the knockout stages at the Grand Slam for the first time – prolonged the contest with 115, 112 and 94 combinations in the closing stages, but Humphries kept his cool to prevail.

Luke Humphries described how his mentality has improved the last couple of years after beating best friend Ryan Searle

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Luke Humphries described how his mentality has improved the last couple of years after beating best friend Ryan Searle

Luke Humphries described how his mentality has improved the last couple of years after beating best friend Ryan Searle

“That was a really tough game to play,” reflected the world No 4, who is eyeing his second televised ranking title in as many months.

“I felt really good there. I probably could have been 8-2 up but I wasn’t, and that’s just testament to how good Ryan is, because he pushes you.

“Ryan is one of the elite players in my opinion. I know what he is capable of, so when he started coming back at me there, I started to get a little worried!”

James Wade and Chris Dobey put on a finishing masterclass, with five ton-plus finishes between them

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James Wade and Chris Dobey put on a finishing masterclass, with five ton-plus finishes between them

James Wade and Chris Dobey put on a finishing masterclass, with five ton-plus finishes between them

Earlier in the night, three-time runner-up James Wade continued his resurgence after fending off a late rally from Masters champion Chris Dobey to move through to his sixth Grand Slam quarter-final.

Wade will take on Josh Rock next after the Northern Irishman produced an impressive display to see off Krzysztof Ratajski and move through to his first premier televised ranking quarter-final.

Josh Rock described how he won on the 'Rock Double Five' and was thinking of his dad on the winning dart as he defeated Krzysztof Ratajski

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Josh Rock described how he won on the ‘Rock Double Five’ and was thinking of his dad on the winning dart as he defeated Krzysztof Ratajski

Josh Rock described how he won on the ‘Rock Double Five’ and was thinking of his dad on the winning dart as he defeated Krzysztof Ratajski

“I knew I hadn’t got through to a quarter-final on the major stage before, but I managed to control the nerves and get the win, so I’m happy,” said the 2022 World Youth Champion.

Live Grand Slam of Darts

November 16, 2023, 7:00pm

Live on Sky Sports Arena

What happens on Thursday at the Grand Slam?

Michael van Gerwen is aiming to win his fourth Grand Slam of Darts title

Michael van Gerwen is aiming to win his fourth Grand Slam of Darts title

The second round action will conclude on Thursday, as three-time champion Michael van Gerwen takes on Australian No 1 Damon Heta for a place in the quarter-finals.

Elsewhere, World Matchplay champion Nathan Aspinall faces 2018 World Champion Rob Cross, world No 7 Danny Noppert plays a resurgent Stephen Bunting, while UK Open champion Andrew Gilding meets American newcomer Stowe Buntz.

Grand Slam of Darts: Thursday’s Second Round Matches

Stowe BuntzvsAndrew Gilding
Danny NoppertvsStephen Bunting
Michael van GerwenvsDamon Heta
Nathan AspinallvsRob Cross

When are the World Championships?

The World Championship starts on Friday, December 15 - live on Sky Sports Darts

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

The World Championship starts on Friday, December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The World Championship starts on Friday, December 15 – live on Sky Sports Darts

The sport’s biggest event will be held from December 15, 2023 to January 3, 2024 as 96 players compete for the Sid Waddell Trophy and £2.5m in prize money at Alexandra Palace.

Watch the seventeenth staging of the Grand Slam of Darts from 11-19 November at the Aldersley Leisure Village. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW



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Grand Slam of Darts: Fallon Sherrock beaten by Michael van Gerwen as Michael Smith makes winning start to title defence

Fallon Sherrock beaten by Michael van Gerwen in Wolverhampton while there were wins for Michael Smith and American debutant Stowe Buntz; watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts from November 11-19 at the WV Active Aldersley – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 11/11/23 11:49pm


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The best of the action from the evening session on Day One of the Grand Slam of Darts

The best of the action from the evening session on Day One of the Grand Slam of Darts

Fallon Sherrock put on a resilient display but was eventually subdued by Michael van Gerwen as Michael Smith made a winning start to the defence of his Grand Slam of Darts title.

Despite three maximums from Sherrock, three-time former winner Van Gerwen ran away with a 5-1 success, while reigning champion Smith continued his incredible group-stage record at the event by seeing off Nathan Girvan 5-2.

American debutant Stowe Buntz caused the shock of the night, averaging 102.28 to defeat his darting idol Peter Wright 5-1.

Grand Slam of Darts: Groups A-C-E-G First Matches

James Wade4-5Krzysztof Ratajski (A)
Michael Smith5-2Nathan Girvan (A)
Dirk van Duijvenbode4-5Gary Anderson (C)
Luke Humphries5-2Steve Lennon (C)
Dave Chisnall4-5Stephen Bunting (E)
Peter Wright1-5Stowe Buntz (E)
Rob Cross5-4Martijn Kleermaker (G)
Michael van Gerwen5-1Fallon Sherrock (G)

Fallon Sherrock's three 180s were not good enough to avoid defeat against Michael van Gerwen

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Fallon Sherrock’s three 180s were not good enough to avoid defeat against Michael van Gerwen

Fallon Sherrock’s three 180s were not good enough to avoid defeat against Michael van Gerwen

Van Gerwen began his bid for a fourth Grand Slam crown by beating ‘Queen of the Palace’ Sherrock, averaging 101.30 to sink the 2021 quarter-finalist, who registered three 180s in defeat.

Smith, who defeated Nathan Aspinall to lift the Eric Bristow Trophy last year, averaged almost 99 to topple Scottish debutant Girvan and celebrate a 17th consecutive group-stage victory at the Grand Slam.

“I love this event – I owe a lot to the Grand Slam, and hopefully it keeps being kind to me,” said Smith, who is bidding to become the fourth player to retain the coveted title.

“I’m really happy to be back. It’s the first time I’ve had to defend a TV title so there were a few butterflies, but I’m happy with how I performed.

“My scoring was great and my finishing was there when I needed it. I’m aware of my record [in the group stage], but I’m only focused on trying to top the group.”

Stowe Buntz shared how much his win over his idol Peter Wright meant to him

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Stowe Buntz shared how much his win over his idol Peter Wright meant to him

Stowe Buntz shared how much his win over his idol Peter Wright meant to him

Buntz caused a huge upset, producing a stunning display to dispatch world No 2 Peter Wright on his televised bow.

Buntz, who sealed his Grand Slam qualification with victory in last month’s CDC Continental Cup, turned on the style in a colourful clash against European champion Wright to cap off a dream TV debut.

The unheralded American fired in a sensational tops-tops 137 finish and took out 116 to race into a three-leg lead, before wrapping up a landmark 5-1 victory with a 13-dart hold.

Live Grand Slam of Darts

November 12, 2023, 1:00pm

Live on Sky Sports Arena

“I don’t know what to say,” admitted a shell-shocked Buntz, who averaged 102.28 to defeat ‘Snakebite’. “It is phenomenal – Peter Wright’s a two-time world champion. He is a big inspiration for me, hence the [colourful] attire.

“To play against one of my idols, it’s like playing against Michael Jordan if you’re a basketball fan. I’m sure my phone is going to be blowing up after this!”

Buntz will play a resurgent Stephen Bunting, who denied Dave Chisnall in another nine-leg affair, pinning five of his seven double attempts to defy a 99 average from the 2014 runner-up.

Brilliant Buntz pinned two ton-plus checkouts to beat Wright

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Brilliant Buntz pinned two ton-plus checkouts to beat Wright

Brilliant Buntz pinned two ton-plus checkouts to beat Wright

Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson will collide in a blockbuster tussle on Sunday evening, after overcoming Steve Lennon and Dirk van Duijvenbode in their respective Group C tussles.

Luke Humphries says he is feeling the best he has felt in a long time after comfortably beating Steve Lennon

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Luke Humphries says he is feeling the best he has felt in a long time after comfortably beating Steve Lennon

Luke Humphries says he is feeling the best he has felt in a long time after comfortably beating Steve Lennon

World Grand Prix champion Humphries posted the first ton-plus average of the tournament in his 5-2 demolition of Lennon, with a 147 checkout in leg five the highlight of his victory.

Anderson, meanwhile, overcame a struggling Van Duijvenbode in a contest dominated by missed doubles, rallying from 4-2 down to triumph with finishes of 84, 74 and 76 in the latter stages.

A look at Gary Anderson's best moments from his comeback victory against Dirk van Duijvenbode

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A look at Gary Anderson’s best moments from his comeback victory against Dirk van Duijvenbode

A look at Gary Anderson’s best moments from his comeback victory against Dirk van Duijvenbode

Live Grand Slam of Darts

November 12, 2023, 7:00pm

Live on Sky Sports Arena

Sunday’s double session will see Saturday’s winning players facing off and the losing players also meeting each other, as Smith continues his title challenge against Poland’s No 1 Krzysztof Ratajski.

Ratajski edged out three-time runner-up James Wade in Saturday evening’s opener, beginning the match with 112 and 120 outshots before firing in a sublime 11-darter to prevail in a high-quality last leg.

Van Gerwen will face Rob Cross in his next Group G clash, after the 2018 world champion recovered from 3-1 and 4-2 deficits to defeat Dutch debutant Martijn Kleermaker with a 96 average.

Grand Slam of Darts: Groups B-D-F-H Second Matches

Chris DobeyvsBerry van Peer (B)
Jonny ClaytonvsJosh Rock (B)
Gian van VeenvsNathan Rafferty (D)
Gerwyn PricevsRyan Searle (D)
Brendan DolanvsHaruki Muramatsu (F)
Danny NoppertvsAndrew Gilding (F)
Ricardo PietreczkovsBeau Greaves (H)
Nathan AspinallvsDamon Heta (H)

Grand Slam of Darts: Groups A-C-E-G Second Matches

James WadevsNathan Girvan (A)
Michael SmithvsKrzysztof Ratajski(A)
Dirk van DuijvenbodevsSteve Lennon (C)
Luke HumphriesvsGary Anderson (C)
Peter WrightvsDave Chisnall (E)
Stephen BuntingvsStowe Buntz (E)
Martijn KleermakervsFallon Sherrock (G)
Michael van GerwenvsRob Cross (G)

What happens next at the Grand Slam?

The group stage continues on Sunday, with Saturday’s winning players facing off and the losing players also meeting each other, before the final round-robin games take place across Monday and Tuesday.

The top two players from each group will progress to the knockout stage, with the last-16 action beginning on Wednesday and running through to the semi-finals and final on Sunday.

Watch the 17th staging of the Grand Slam of Darts from November 11-19 at the Aldersley Leisure Village. Stream your favourite sports and more with NOW



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World Grand Prix: Nathan Aspinall, Raymond van Barneveld, James Wade suffer early exits on opening night

Megan Wellens

Digital Sports Journalist @MegWellensX

Nathan Aspinall was knocked out by Stephen Bunting as James Wade and Raymond van Barneveld also failed to progress; watch the double in, double out World Grand Prix Darts from the Morningside Arena in Leicester up until the final on October 8 – live on Sky Sports

Last Updated: 03/10/23 12:04am


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Take a look at what happened on Night One of the World Grand Prix in Leicester

Take a look at what happened on Night One of the World Grand Prix in Leicester

Nathan Aspinall, James Wade and Raymond van Barneveld suffered first-round exits on the opening night of the 2023 World Grand Prix.

Stephen Bunting overcame some poor finishing to knock out 2022 runner-up and world No 5 Aspinall in a 2-1 victory.

Bunting showed his strength on the doubles to cruise to a 3-1 win in the first set, a ghastly leg for Aspinall saw him take 12 darts to find the double.

Nathan Aspinall had a horror start to the third leg in the first set, needing 12 darts before hitting a double to get off the mark!

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Nathan Aspinall had a horror start to the third leg in the first set, needing 12 darts before hitting a double to get off the mark!

Nathan Aspinall had a horror start to the third leg in the first set, needing 12 darts before hitting a double to get off the mark!

Aspinall then found a clutch 140 to take the match to a deciding set but Bunting held strong under pressure, a huge maximum in the deciding leg helping him to the D16 finish for the victory.

World Grand Prix Results

Dirk van Duijvenbode1-2Brendan Dolan
Jose de Sousa1-2Gary Anderson
Krzysztof Ratajski2-1James Wade
Martin Schindler2-1Raymond van Barneveld
Nathan Aspinall1-2Stephen Bunting
Gerwyn Price2-0Danny Noppert
Michael Smith2-0Callan Rydz
Rob Cross1-2Andrew Gilding

Van Barneveld was defeated 2-1 by Martin Schindler, a disastrous opening leg foreshadowing his early exit.

‘Barney’ came back to take the second set, but Schindler’s scoring proved too much as he broke the throw on the deciding leg to seal the match and a second-round spot.

Martin Schindler brilliantly took out 160 to keep his hopes alive in the first set of his encounter with Raymond van Barneveld

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Martin Schindler brilliantly took out 160 to keep his hopes alive in the first set of his encounter with Raymond van Barneveld

Martin Schindler brilliantly took out 160 to keep his hopes alive in the first set of his encounter with Raymond van Barneveld

Krzysztof Ratajski pulled off an unlikely comeback to win 2-1 and knock out two-time winner Wade.

Two-time World Grand Prix champion James Wade lost the last three legs as he suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Krzysztof Ratajski in the opening round

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Two-time World Grand Prix champion James Wade lost the last three legs as he suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Krzysztof Ratajski in the opening round

Two-time World Grand Prix champion James Wade lost the last three legs as he suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Krzysztof Ratajski in the opening round

Wade found himself 2-0 up in the final deciding set but Ratajski fought back and was near perfect on the trebles to take three legs in a row and clinch an astonishing victory.

Smith shows skill as Anderson and Price also progress

World champion Michael Smith showed his brilliance and dropped just one leg as he raced to a 2-0 victory over Callan Rydz.

Smith got off to a flying start against Rydz, a 124 checkout helping him to a first-set win that included two breaks of throw.

Michael Smith sent out a statement of intent, taking out 124 in the opening leg of his contest versus Callan Rydz

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Michael Smith sent out a statement of intent, taking out 124 in the opening leg of his contest versus Callan Rydz

Michael Smith sent out a statement of intent, taking out 124 in the opening leg of his contest versus Callan Rydz

Despite Rydz rallying with a brilliant 126 checkout to take a leg, Smith then won three more in a row to wrap up the match and lay down a marker in the competition.

Gerwyn Price demolished Danny Noppert in a 2-0 routing, ‘The Iceman’ showing his class to take the first set, 112 and 101 finishes to break the throw plus a dominant deciding leg giving him the upper hand.

From there, Noppert could not respond, and the Welshman cruised through three back-to-back legs to wrap up the win, his scoring on the doubles too good for the Dutchman.

Gerwyn Price won the first set against Danny Noppert thanks to finishes of 112 and 101

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Gerwyn Price won the first set against Danny Noppert thanks to finishes of 112 and 101

Gerwyn Price won the first set against Danny Noppert thanks to finishes of 112 and 101

Dirk van Duijvenbode was the first to be knocked out as he fell 2-1 to Brendan Dolan.

Van Duijvenbode got going quickly as he raced to take all three legs in the first set against the throw for a 1-0 lead but Dolan fought back to clinch the second set and take the match to a decider.

It was then his turn to take all three sets as he found the doubles much quicker than his opponent, sealing the win and the spot in the second round with a tops finish.

The next clash saw an in-form Gary Anderson take on the ‘Special One’ Jose de Sousa, the Portuguese No 1 averaging 102.5 to clinch the first set on a break of throw in the deciding leg.

Gary Anderson overcame Jose de Sousa in a deciding leg as he progressed to the second round at the World Grand Prix

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Gary Anderson overcame Jose de Sousa in a deciding leg as he progressed to the second round at the World Grand Prix

Gary Anderson overcame Jose de Sousa in a deciding leg as he progressed to the second round at the World Grand Prix

However, the ‘Flying Scotsman’ fought back and showed why he is one to watch in this year’s tournament, taking four legs in a row, with some huge maximums along the way, plus a nervy deciding leg for the 2-1 win.

The final clash of the night saw Rob Cross and Andrew Gilding in a tight, albeit low-quality, affair as Gilding sealed the 2-1 win in a last-leg decider.

Cross missed three match darts for the victory and Gilding held his nerve to hit tops and seal only his second-ever World Grand Prix win.

Rob Cross squandered three match darts in the deciding leg as Andrew Gilding fought back from losing the opening set to reach the second round at the World Grand Prix

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Rob Cross squandered three match darts in the deciding leg as Andrew Gilding fought back from losing the opening set to reach the second round at the World Grand Prix

Rob Cross squandered three match darts in the deciding leg as Andrew Gilding fought back from losing the opening set to reach the second round at the World Grand Prix

Tuesday at the World Grand Prix

Michael van Gerwen will begin his defence of the title against Josh Rock in a mouth-watering first-round tussle.

Van Gerwen, who lifted his sixth World Grand Prix title in 2022, will open his challenge against world youth champion Rock.

Live World Grand Prix Darts

October 3, 2023, 6:00pm

Live on Sky Sports Arena

World Grand Prix: Tuesday, October 3 from 6pm

Joe CullenvsMike De Decker
Dave ChisnallvsLuke Woodhouse
Damon HetavsRyan Searle
Dimitri Van den BerghvsChris Dobey
Peter WrightvsGabriel Clemens
Michael van GerwenvsJosh Rock
Jonny ClaytonvsRoss Smith
Luke HumphriesvsDaryl Gurney

Third seed Peter Wright will play German No 1 Gabriel Clemens in his opener, with Hungarian Darts Trophy winner Dave Chisnall up against Luke Woodhouse.

Watch the double in, double out World Grand Prix Darts at the Morningside Arena in Leicester every night up until the final on October 8 – live on Sky Sports. Stream the World Grand Prix and more with NOW for £21 a month for six months



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US Open

ATP World Tour / Men’s Singles / Round of 128

  • Ilya Ivashka of Belarus is currently playing Juan Manuel Cerundolo of Argentina. The current score is 6-2, current set: 6-6, at tiebreak. . Current server is Juan Manuel Cerundolo

  • J.J. Wolf of United States of America is currently playing Zhizhen Zhang of China PR. The current score is 5-7, current set: 4-3. . Current server is Zhizhen Zhang

  • Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, seeded 25 is currently playing Dominic Thiem of Austria. The current score is 3-6, 2-6, current set: 0-1. Current game: 30-G. Current server is Alexander Bublik

  • Richard Gasquet of France is currently playing Fabian Marozsan of Hungary. The current score is 3-6, 1-6, current set: 3-3. . Current server is Fabian Marozsan

  • Sebastian Ofner of Austria is currently playing Nuno Borges of Portugal. The current score is 7-6, 3-6, current set: 0-0. . Current server is Nuno Borges

  • Adrian Mannarino of France, seeded 22 is currently playing Yosuke Watanuki of Japan. The current score is 7-5, current set: 4-3. . Current server is Yosuke Watanuki

  • Pedro Cachin of Argentina is currently playing Ben Shelton of United States of America. The current score is 6-1, 3-6, 2-6, current set: 0-0. . Current server is Ben Shelton

  • Marcos Giron of United States of America is scheduled to play Alejandro Davidovich Fokina of Spain, seeded 21, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Jakub Mensik of Czechia, seeded Q is scheduled to play Gregoire Barrere of France, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain is scheduled to play Holger Rune of Denmark, seeded 4, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Casper Ruud of Norway, seeded 5 is scheduled to play Emilio Nava of United States of America, seeded Q, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Rinky Hijikata of Australia, seeded WC is scheduled to play Pavel Kotov of Russian Federation, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Lorenzo Musetti of Italy, seeded 18 is scheduled to play Titouan Droguet of France, seeded Q, at 18:00. First server will be TBD

  • Learner Tien of United States of America, seeded WC is scheduled to play Frances Tiafoe of United States of America, seeded 10, at 18:30. First server will be TBD

  • Laslo Djere of Serbia, seeded 32 is scheduled to play Brandon Nakashima of United States of America, at 19:00. First server will be TBD

  • Steve Johnson of United States of America, seeded WC is scheduled to play Taylor Fritz of United States of America, seeded 9, at 19:00. First server will be TBD

  • Zachary Svajda of United States of America, seeded Q is scheduled to play Francisco Cerundolo of Argentina, seeded 20, at 19:00. First server will be TBD

  • Jiri Vesely of Czechia is scheduled to play Enzo Couacaud of France, seeded Q, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Marton Fucsovics of Hungary is scheduled to play Sebastian Korda of United States of America, seeded 31, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Tommy Paul of United States of America, seeded 14 is scheduled to play Stefano Travaglia of Italy, seeded Q, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Miomir Kecmanovic of Serbia is scheduled to play Juan Pablo Varillas of Peru, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Roman Safiullin of Russian Federation is scheduled to play Marco Cecchinato of Italy, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Aslan Karatsev of Russian Federation is scheduled to play Jiri Lehecka of Czechia, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Bernabe Zapata Miralles of Spain is scheduled to play Ethan Quinn of United States of America, seeded WC, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • Felix Auger-Aliassime of Canada, seeded 15 is scheduled to play Mackenzie McDonald of United States of America, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • Sho Shimabukuro of Japan, seeded Q is scheduled to play Hugo Gaston of France, seeded Q, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • Dominic Stricker of Switzerland, seeded Q is scheduled to play Alexei Popyrin of Australia, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • Quentin Halys of France is scheduled to play Benjamin Bonzi of France, seeded WC, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • Hugo Dellien of Bolivia (Plurinational State of) is scheduled to play Borna Gojo of Croatia, seeded Q, at 21:00. First server will be TBD

  • SoonWoo Kwon of Korea Republic is scheduled to play Christopher Eubanks of United States of America, seeded 28, at 22:00. First server will be TBD

  • Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece, seeded 7 is scheduled to play Milos Raonic of Canada, at 00:00. First server will be TBD

WTA Tour / Women’s Singles / Round of 128

  • Kamilla Rakhimova of Russian Federation is currently playing Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, seeded 15. The current score is 2-6, current set: 2-5. . Current server is Belinda Bencic

  • Anna Karolina Schmiedlova of Slovakia is currently playing Kateryna Baindl of Ukraine. The current score is 6-4, current set: 3-2. . Current server is Kateryna Baindl

  • Iga Swiatek of Poland, seeded 1 is currently playing Rebecca Peterson of Sweden. The current score is 4-0. Current game: 30-15. Current server is Iga Swiatek

  • Magdalena Frech of Poland is currently playing Emma Navarro of United States of America. The current score is 7-6, current set: 1-1. . Current server is Emma Navarro

  • Rebeka Masarova of Spain is currently playing Maria Sakkari of Greece, seeded 8. The current score is 6-4, current set: 5-3. . Current server is Maria Sakkari

  • Karolina Muchova of Czechia, seeded 10 defeats Storm Hunter of Australia, seeded WC. 6-4, 6-0

  • Victoria Azarenka of Belarus, seeded 18 defeats Fiona Ferro of France, seeded WC. 6-1, 6-2

  • Taylor Townsend of United States of America defeats Varvara Gracheva of France. 4-6, 2-6

  • Daria Saville of Australia defeats Clervie Ngounoue of United States of America, seeded WC. 0-6, 2-6

  • Lauren Davis of United States of America is scheduled to play Danka Kovinic of Montenegro, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Anhelina Kalinina of Ukraine, seeded 28 is scheduled to play Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain, at 17:30. First server will be TBD

  • Sloane Stephens of United States of America is scheduled to play Beatriz Haddad Maia of Brazil, seeded 19, at 17:45. First server will be TBD

  • Danielle Collins of United States of America is scheduled to play Linda Fruhvirtova of Czechia, at 18:00. First server will be TBD

  • Yuriko Miyazaki of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, seeded Q is scheduled to play Margarita Betova of Russian Federation, at 18:00. First server will be TBD

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  • Kaja Juvan of Slovenia, seeded Q is scheduled to play Elisabetta Cocciaretto of Italy, seeded 29, at 18:00. First server will be TBD

  • Julia Grabher of Austria is scheduled to play Xiyu Wang of China PR, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Panna Udvardy of Hungary is scheduled to play Ajla Tomljanovic of Australia, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Kimberly Birrell of Australia, seeded LL is scheduled to play Jennifer Brady of United States of America, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Elise Mertens of Belgium, seeded 32 is scheduled to play Mirjam Bjorklund of Sweden, seeded Q, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan, seeded 4 is scheduled to play Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine, at 19:30. First server will be TBD

  • Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus is scheduled to play Magda Linette of Poland, seeded 24, at 20:00. First server will be TBD

  • Kayla Day of United States of America, seeded WC is scheduled to play Sorana Cirstea of Romania, seeded 30, at 21:30. First server will be TBD

  • Alize Cornet of France is scheduled to play Elina Avanesyan of Russian Federation, at 21:30. First server will be TBD

  • Jelena Ostapenko of Latvia, seeded 20 is scheduled to play Jasmine Paolini of Italy, at 21:30. First server will be TBD

  • Olivia Gadecki of Australia, seeded Q is scheduled to play Mirra Andreeva of Russian Federation, at 21:30. First server will be TBD

  • Anna Kalinskaya of Russian Federation is scheduled to play Katerina Siniakova of Czechia, at 21:30. First server will be TBD

  • Petra Kvitova of Czechia, seeded 11 is scheduled to play Cristina Bucsa of Spain, at 23:00. First server will be TBD

  • Laura Siegemund of Germany, seeded Q is scheduled to play Coco Gauff of United States of America, seeded 6, at 00:00. First server will be TBD

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ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying 1st Round

  • Mark Whitehouse of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland defeats Ugo Blanchet of France. 6-7, 3-6

  • Christian Langmo of United States of America defeats Rafael Giotis of Germany. 3-6, 6-7

  • Peter Gojowczyk of Germany defeats John Echeverria of Spain. 7-6, 7-6

  • Daniel Cukierman of Israel defeats Alexey Vatutin of Russian Federation. 2-6, 6-3, 3-6

  • August Holmgren of Denmark defeats Ivan Ivanov of Bulgaria. 4-6, 5-7

  • Kenny de Schepper of France defeats Igor Sijsling of Netherlands. 6-4, 6-7, 1-6

  • Maxime Janvier of France defeats Daniil Sarksian of Russian Federation. 6-2, 6-2

  • Damir Dzumhur of Bosnia and Herzegovina defeats Daniel Cox of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. 6-4, 6-4

  • Gastao Elias of Portugal defeats Miguel Damas of Spain. 6-2, 5-7, 6-1

  • Adria Soriano Barrera of Colombia defeats Bernard Tomic of Australia. 1-2

  • Edas Butvilas of Lithuania is scheduled to play Charles Broom of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, at 13:30. First server will be TBD

  • Izan Almazan Valiente of Spain is scheduled to play Ulises Blanch of United States of America, at 15:00. First server will be TBD

Challenger Citta’ di Como

ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying 1st Round

  • Santiago Rodriguez Taverna of Argentina defeats Karl Friberg of Sweden. 7-5, 7-6

  • Calvin Hemery of France defeats Luca Castagnola of Italy. 0-6, 4-6

  • Manuel Guinard of France defeats Matteo Martineau of France. 6-1, 6-4

  • Mathias Bourgue of France defeats Andrea Arnaboldi of Italy. 7-6, 6-3

  • Samuel Vincent Ruggeri of Italy defeats Kyrian Jacquet of France. 3-6, 1-6

  • Alexander Weis of Italy defeats Lorenzo Rottoli of Italy. 4-6, 2-6

  • Miljan Zekic of Serbia defeats Enrico Dalla Valle of Italy. 7-6, 5-7, 7-6

  • Salvatore Caruso of Italy defeats Rocco Piatti of Monaco. 4-6, 6-3, 6-1

  • Moez Echargui of Tunisia defeats Maxime Chazal of France. 6-1, 6-7, 3-6

  • Louis Wessels of Germany defeats Chun-Hsin Tseng of Chinese Taipei. 3-6, 2-6

  • Giovanni Fonio of Italy defeats David Jorda Sanchis of Spain. 4-6, 6-3, 7-5

  • Henrique Rocha of Portugal is scheduled to play Valentin Royer of France, at 14:30. First server will be TBD

Zhangjiagang International Challenger

ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying Final

  • Yan Bai of China PR, seeded Q defeats Yusuke Takahashi of Japan. 2-6, 1-6

  • Linang Xiao of China PR, seeded Q defeats Alexander Zgirovsky of Belarus. 6-7, 6-7

  • Jie Cui of China PR, seeded Q defeats Shuichi Sekiguchi of Japan. 1-6, 2-6

  • Leonid Sheyngezikht of Bulgaria, seeded Q defeats Matthew Romios of Australia. 4-6, 6-3, 4-6

  • Hanyi Liu of China PR, seeded Q defeats Colin Sinclair of Northern Mariana Islands. 6-1, 3-6, 6-7

  • Mikalai Haliak of Belarus, seeded Q defeats Ray Ho of Chinese Taipei. 6-3, 6-1

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Lina Nielsen: My journey with multiple sclerosis and my dreams as a British athlete


As a British athlete, Lina Nielsen has faced many hurdles while trying to compete and beat the world’s best. But sharing her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and learning more about it while still competing at the highest level has been a unique journey that she has wanted to share.

Over 130,000 people live with MS in the UK, and Nielsen is on a journey to find out exactly what the condition is and how to live with it.

As part of a short series for Sky Sports News, the 27-year-old spoke to various experts, including researchers, psychologists and those with MS, to help debunk some of the myths surrounding this condition.

Athletics was Lina’s first love at 11 years old, but it was at 13 when she first started experiencing symptoms. Initially, the disease came in the form of weakness in her left arm and was misdiagnosed as a stroke. Nielsen sat down with her mother and twin sister Laviai to remember when she first started noticing symptoms.

Lina’s mother said: “I remember the first time you had that attack, you were sleeping, and it was eight o’clock, and I was downstairs, and I called Laviai to get ready to go to school. And [Laviai] told me, ‘Lina, she cannot get up from the bed’.

“And you told me you cannot move your arm, and you cannot move your hand. I was very worried, and I said, maybe you know, you’ve become paralysed or something because I didn’t know.”

But Nielsen’s mum could not be any prouder of Lina’s determination and resilience as she continues to follow her dreams.

Lina Nielsen with her mother and sister

Lina Nielsen with her mother and sister

Last year, the British 400-metre hurdler went public with the news that she has MS after almost a decade of keeping it private.

The symptoms of a flare-up struck on the eve of her heat at the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon, leaving her unable to perform at her best. One of the only people to know about her diagnosis was her twin sister and best friend, Laviai.

“When I first told you about my diagnosis, do you remember when it was?” asks Lina.

Her sister replied: “Yeah, vaguely. It was in the back of a car. And I think the words you used were, ‘do you even know what I have?’ And I was like, ‘No, you didn’t tell me’. You were like, I have multiple sclerosis. And I’m like, ‘What’s that?’ And I think it was just a confusing time because I had heard it floating around, but I didn’t quite understand how a 17-year-old would have MS,” Laviai told Sky Sports News.

Lina asks if her sister remembers “supporting me through any of those relapses that I had … how you helped me get through some of those?”

Lina Nielsen with her twin sister Laviai

Lina Nielsen with her twin sister Laviai

Her twin sister Laviai did, adding: “I think initially, because I didn’t know what it was, I went on to Google to search up the disease, and it said that you might end up in a wheelchair, and I didn’t really know what to think of that. And then you told me that there are different types of MS.”

Lina remembers her relapse at the World Championships well. “So, let’s take it back to my most recent relapse in Oregon, the World Championships. You knew straight away that something was wrong, didn’t you?”

Laviai said: “Yeah, it was your first World Championships, and you’d worked so hard to get there. And I remember you woke up, I think it was two days before your heats, and I immediately sensed that something was wrong.

“Initially, I thought maybe it was nerves, but then when you said you couldn’t feel your torso, it brought back all those memories of being 17 and not really knowing what was happening. And that was really scary.”

But have times, medicine and research changed since Nielsen’s diagnosis? She travelled around the country to find out, starting with a visit to the University of Nottingham, which has a special department investigating the effects of MS.

Dr Nikos Evangelou, a researcher at the university, said: “Until recently, we’re saying this is an autoimmune condition. So, our immune system fights infections, bugs and viruses, and so on, but sometimes it turns against ourselves.”

Nielsen asked the specialist: “One of the things that people said to me was, how are you still doing what you’re doing? And I tried to explain there’s inflammation, and once that inflammation goes down, you can regain function of that nerve.”

Nielsen speaking with Dr Nikos Evangelou on current MS research

Nielsen speaking with Dr Nikos Evangelou on current MS research

Dr Evangelou, speaking to Nielsen, who had a sprained ankle, said: “So exactly like you have the swollen ankle. If you have the initial inflammation, there is a bit of swelling in the beginning. This swelling disrupts the function of all the nerves that go there. Exactly like your ankle.”

Nielsen also met Dr Blanca De Dios Perez from the University of Nottingham to talk about the psychology of multiple sclerosis, how the general public perceives it, and why we always think of the worst when it comes to the disease.

“There’s a lot of stigma surrounding MS. Would you say that sticking to work or exercise and movement, in my example, can become a good coping strategy for people who are newly diagnosed or have been living with MS for a while?” Nielsen asked.

Nielsen discusses the stigmas around MS

Nielsen discusses the stigmas around MS

Dr Perez replied: “Work is good for health. Exercise is also very good for health, and for people with MS, it helps you with mood, overall quality of life and fatigue. So, if you continue exercising, that can be your approach towards managing your symptoms.”

When Nielsen was first diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS, she initially searched, ‘What is MS?’ on Google. She was worried when she saw images of people in wheelchairs.

She added: “You’d see these big words, ‘debilitating’, ‘chronic’, ‘incurable’, and things like that. So, for me, it was really just taking the time to understand my condition.”

The British athlete was keen to get advice from those who might also be in her place. She asked: “For people newly diagnosed with MS, how can they begin to turn away from the umbrella term you see on Google and other resources and maybe understand it within themselves, how to manage or cope with their condition?”

Dr Perez replied: “Simple answer. Don’t Google it. Never Google.

“It can be really scary to Google MS, and you may see unreliable information. You might read something that might put ideas in your head that is not quite there. If you are newly diagnosed, the MS Society or MS Trust have reliable resources that are quite useful for a person who has been newly diagnosed. Learn from yourself, from your experiences, and not from another person’s experiences because you might go through a completely different pathway.”

For Nielsen, diet has played a big role in her recovery from relapsing-remitting MS. She flew back home early after her relapse last year at the World Championships in Oregon.

While preparing a salmon dish, she said: “I knew I needed to have the right foods to help my body recover, so I would make dishes like this.”

Lina Nielsen emphasises the importance of diet

Lina Nielsen emphasises the importance of diet

Nielsen also spoke to executive director of research and external affairs Dr Sarah Rawlings from the MS Society to explore what kind of resources and support is in place for newly-diagnosed patients.

“How do you think the general public perceives MS? How do you think we can change that, and is representation important?” Nielsen wanted to know.

“Because MS affects everybody so differently, no two people’s symptoms are the same, and because so many of those symptoms are hidden, I think many people really don’t understand MS and what it actually means to live with MS daily. Which is why raising awareness is so important,” Dr Rawlings explained.

Nielsen asks: “For many people with MS, myself included, deciding a course of treatment to go on can be extremely overwhelming. And there’s so much information out there. What resources does the MS Society have to help you or support you in deciding on that big decision?”

Dr Rawlings admits it can be “hugely overwhelming”.