What Is 2018 PDC Players Championship 11

Overview

The 2018 PDC Players Championship 11 was the eleventh of thirteen Players Championship events held during the 2018 PDC Pro Tour season. This tournament was part of the non-televised ranking events that allow professional darts players to earn prize money and ranking points throughout the year.

Hosted on July 21, 2018, at the Barnsley Metrodome in Barnsley, England, the event attracted a full field of 131 players competing in a straight knockout format. The tournament was notable for Daryl Gurney's breakthrough win, marking his first Players Championship title of the year.

• 131 players participated in the single-elimination format, including top-ranked professionals and emerging talents from the PDC circuit.
• The event took place on July 21, 2018, as part of a busy summer darts calendar leading up to the World Matchplay.
• Daryl Gurney claimed victory by defeating Dave Chisnall 6–4 in the final, securing his first 2018 Players Championship title.
• The tournament was held at the Barnsley Metrodome, a regular venue for PDC events due to its central location and fan-friendly atmosphere.
• Prize money for the winner was £10,000, with additional funds distributed down to the last 64 players.

How It Works

The PDC Players Championship events follow a standardized format designed to balance competitive integrity with logistical efficiency. Each event is a one-day tournament featuring a large field of players competing in a knockout bracket.

• Format: The tournament uses a single-elimination bracket. Players compete in best-of-11 legs matches until the semi-finals and final, which are best-of-19 legs.
• Qualification: Entry is open to all PDC Tour Card holders, with 131 players entering based on availability and ranking.
• Venue Rotation: The PDC rotates venues across the UK; Barnsley has hosted multiple events due to its strong fan turnout and facilities.
• Scoring System: Matches are played in legs, with each leg won by the first to 501 points, starting and finishing with a double.
• Prize Distribution: The winner earns £10,000, with £6,000 for the runner-up, and decreasing amounts down to £250 for last 64.
• Ranking Points: Winners receive 100 ProTour ranking points, crucial for qualification into televised majors like the World Championship.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how Players Championship 11 compared to other key PDC events in 2018:

While Players Championship events offer lower prize money than televised majors, they are vital for maintaining ranking position and form. The consistency required across multiple one-day events separates top players from the pack over the season.

Why It Matters

Players Championship 11 was more than just another tournament—it highlighted emerging trends and player performances that influenced the rest of the 2018 season. Daryl Gurney’s win signaled his growing dominance in the ProTour circuit and boosted his confidence ahead of televised events.

• Daryl Gurney’s victory marked his first 2018 title, establishing him as a consistent threat on the ProTour.
• The win earned him 100 ranking points, helping secure his position for qualification into major televised events.
• Players Championship events like this one allow lower-ranked players to earn money and climb the PDC Order of Merit.
• For fans, these events provide affordable access to see top players in intimate venues like Barnsley Metrodome.
• The tournament format tests endurance and focus, as players can compete in up to six matches in a single day.
• Success in these events often correlates with strong performances in larger tournaments, making them a key barometer of form.

Overall, the 2018 PDC Players Championship 11 played a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of professional darts that year, offering both prestige and practical benefits to its participants.