Ricky Evans is set to make his mark at the upcoming Paddy Power World Darts Championship. The event is scheduled to commence on Friday evening, where he will face Hong Kong’s Man Lok Leung in the opening round. This marks Evans’ 11th participation in this prestigious tournament, celebrated for its competitive spirit.
Evans’ Darts Journey
The 35-year-old player from Kettering is regarded as a crowd favorite at the Alexandra Palace. His history at this venue includes victories against notable opponents such as Nathan Aspinall, Dave Chisnall, and Simon Whitlock. Known for his entertaining performances, Evans humorously compared himself to Michael Bublé, implying he only thrives during the busy darts season.
Previous Achievements and Current Form
- Qualified for the championship through ProTour rankings.
- Recently reached the quarter-finals at the Grand Slam of Darts.
- Defeated Gerwyn Price in the round-robin phase but fell short in the next round.
Evans acknowledges the heightened competition in darts recently. He expressed frustration over losing several close matches on the ProTour but remains optimistic. Simplifying his approach has been a focus, as he seeks to capitalize on his current form leading into the championship.
Personal Motivation and Tribute
This year has been particularly challenging for Evans due to the passing of his sister, Elisha, in March. He shared how her memory remains a guiding force in his life and plays a significant role in his motivation. Evans aims to honor her by performing well in the tournament and making his family proud.
Broadcast Information
The 2025/26 Paddy Power World Darts Championship will be available for viewing live on Sky Sports in the UK. It will also stream through PDC’s global partners, including DAZN and Viaplay, along with PDCTV for select regions.
Opening Round Schedule
| Date | Session | Matchup |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, December 12 | Afternoon (12:30 GMT) |
|
| Evening (19:00 GMT) |
|
As Evans prepares for this significant event, all eyes will be on him to see if he can shine at Ally Pally and continue his quest for darts excellence.
