The Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) has announced a significant rule change for the 2025 European Tour, responding to player complaints about last year's regulations. The new policy alters seeding for the first round of European Tour events, which will affect top players like Luke Littler and Luke Humphries.
Under the previous system, first-round seeding was based on the Main Order of Merit, giving higher-ranked players protection from tough opponents. Now, players who qualify via the Pro Tour Order of Merit will be seeded in the first round, ensuring they face unseeded opponents. The top 16 from the world rankings remain exempt until the second round.
The change aims to reward consistent performance on the Pro Tour, giving lower-ranked players a better chance to advance on televised stages. This follows backlash from players like William O'Connor and Ryan Searle, who criticised the old format for making it difficult to break into the top 32 and earn a living from darts.
The first European Tour event, the Poland Darts Open, begins in February in Krakow. Reigning champion Gerwyn Price will defend his title, while world champion Luke Littler has already qualified. The winner will receive £35,000.
