The World Matchplay Darts tournament continued at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens with several notable first-round results. James Wade, a 2007 World Matchplay champion seeking his first title since then after six runner-up finishes, defeated Jermaine Wattimena 10-7 in what marked his 20th appearance at the event. Wade led 4-1 early but allowed Wattimena to narrow the deficit to 5-4 before extending his advantage to 8-4 and ultimately securing the victory with breaks of throw traded in the closing legs. Wade acknowledged his performance was below his usual standards but credited a tactical adjustment in pacing his play against his Dutch opponent.
Gian van Veen produced a strong display to overcome Krzysztof Ratajski 10-6, demonstrating exceptional finishing that included 144 checkouts and a 160 checkout. This marked a significant performance for van Veen, the world No. 3, who had lost to Ratajski less than a week prior at a Euro Tour event in Leverkusen. Van Veen’s defensive throwing proved particularly effective, keeping Ratajski at least three legs away throughout the match. Ryan Searle also advanced with a 10-6 win over William O’Connor, who was making his Matchplay debut, as Searle employed clinical doubling and breaks of throw to establish control early.
Wessel Nijman demonstrated the form that produced eight titles earlier in the year by defeating Dave Chisnall 10-5, capturing the first four legs and establishing a 6-1 lead before closing with a 108 checkout. Michael van Gerwen ground out a 10-6 victory against Andrew Gilding despite averaging less than 95. Gary Anderson delivered his best-ever World Matchplay performance in an impressive 10-2 defeat of Ryan Joyce, averaging just under 110—his best in 18 years at the Winter Gardens—and showcasing 144 and 141 finishes.
Jonny Clayton edged Damon Heta 10-7 with closing finishes of 121 and 144 to set up a meeting with Anderson. In a dramatic opening match, 13th seed Chris Dobey missed four match darts before falling 13-11 to Dirk van Duijvenbode, a loss compounded by 29 missed doubles. The tournament continues with four additional matches scheduled for the following day on Sky Sports.