The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion at the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship, with just four players remaining in the hunt for the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy. Defending champion Luke Littler stands on the brink of history, aiming to become only the third player ever to successfully retain the title.
Semi-Final Showdowns at Alexandra Palace
The final four will battle it out in a blockbuster evening session at London's iconic Alexandra Palace on Friday, January 2. The night will feature two gripping semi-final clashes that promise high drama and world-class tungsten action.
The session opens with a classic generational duel. Two-time champion Gary Anderson, at 55, faces the meteoric rise of Dutch star Gian van Veen, 23, who caused a seismic shock by eliminating world number two and 2024 champion Luke Humphries in the quarter-finals.
That match will be followed by the main event, as teenage sensation Luke Littler takes on the formidable Ryan Searle. Searle booked his place by defeating world number five Jonny Clayton and has been in imperious form, conceding just two sets throughout the entire tournament.
Littler's Path to Sporting Immortality
All eyes will be on Littler as he seeks to join the legendary company of Phil Taylor and Gary Anderson as the only men to defend the world crown. The champion was in devastating form during his quarter-final, sweeping aside Krzysztof Ratajski with ease.
A victory would not only cement his status at the pinnacle of the sport but also silence any doubters about his ability to handle the unique pressure of being the hunted rather than the hunter. The financial reward is also unprecedented, with a record-breaking £1 million winner's cheque awaiting the champion.
How to Watch the Darts Action
Darts fans across the UK can catch every dart live. Coverage of the semi-finals begins at 7:30pm on Sky Sports Darts and Sky Sports Main Event. The first match between Anderson and Van Veen is scheduled to start at approximately 7.45pm.
Luke Littler's clash with Ryan Searle will follow, with an expected stage time of around 9pm, subject to the duration of the first semi-final. Viewers can also stream the entire session via the Sky Go app or by purchasing a NOW TV Sports Membership.
With a place in the final and a life-changing prize on the line, the atmosphere inside Ally Pally is sure to be electric as the 2026 World Darts Championship reaches its thrilling climax.
