The World Darts Championship Day One kicks off the most exciting tournament in the darts calendar, featuring the first batch of 1st Round clashes at the iconic Alexandra Palace in London. Fans worldwide tune in for the electrifying walk-ons, intense finishing, and early upsets that often shape the rest of the tournament.
Day One traditionally features the Defending Champion’s opening match, along with multiple 1st Round encounters showcasing rising talents and international qualifiers eager to make history.
Event Overview
- Event: PDC World Darts Championship – Day One
- Stage: 1st Round
- Venue: Alexandra Palace, London
- Broadcast: Sky Sports (UK), Peacock (USA), Viaplay, DAZN, PDCTV (regional availability varies)
- Date: Opening day of the championship (usually mid-December)
🎯 Day One – 1st Round Match Card
Below is a sample layout of how Day One typically looks (adjust to actual match schedule when released):
Match 1 (1st Round)
- Player A vs. Player B
- Format: Best of 5 sets
- Key Notes: Opening match of the event
Match 2 (1st Round)
- Player C vs. Player D
- Format: Best of 5 sets
- Key Notes: Features debutants or rising talents
Match 3 (1st Round)
- Player E vs. Player F
- Format: Best of 5 sets
- Key Notes: Often showcases international qualifiers
Main Event – Defending Champion’s Match (2nd Round)
- Defending Champion vs. Winner of Match 1
- Format: Best of 5 sets
- Key Notes: First appearance of the reigning world champion
Day One blends dramatic 1st Round battles and world-class stage theatrics, setting the tone for the entire championship.
Where to Watch Day One Live
Viewing options depend on your region:
United Kingdom & Ireland
- Sky Sports Darts (exclusive)
- Full coverage including build-up, analysis & commentary
United States
- Peacock – All Day One matches
- NBC Sports NOW – major stages later in tournament
Europe
- DAZN (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)
- Viaplay (Netherlands, Nordics)
Australia
- Fox Sports / Kayo Sports
Rest of the World
- PDCTV (not available in UK/IRE/DE/AT/CH)
Day One Start Time (Global)
- UK: 7:00 PM GMT
- USA (ET): 2:00 PM
- USA (PT): 11:00 AM
- Australia: 6:00 AM (next day)
- Europe: 8:00 PM CET
What to Expect from Day One
Day One is famous for:
- Early shocks and surprise exits
- Electric crowd atmosphere
- Debut players making statements
- Defending champion’s dramatic return
- Momentum-setting performances for the rest of the draw
Fans love Day One because it captures the pure unpredictability of darts.
Live Scores & Stats
If you cannot watch:
- PDC Live Scores – real-time legs, averages, checkouts
- Flashscore Darts Section – match trackers, stats, historical data
❓ FAQs – World Darts Championship Day One
1. How many matches are played on Day One?
Typically 4 matches (3 × 1st Round + defending champion’s match).
2. What format is used in the 1st Round?
Best of 5 sets, each set is best of 5 legs.
3. Who plays the first match?
Usually two unseeded players start the championship.
4. Can I watch Day One for free?
Some regions offer trial access (e.g., DAZN or Peacock free trial), but availability varies.
5. Does the defending champion always play on Day One?
Yes, it is tradition that the reigning champion opens the tournament.
6. Are replays available?
Yes — Sky Go, Peacock, PDCTV, and DAZN offer replays depending on region.
