Despite defeat, Brody Klinge makes history: only Van Gerwen, Taylor and Littler were better

PDC
Sunday, 23 August 2026 at 08:00
Brody Klinge fist pumping
Brody Klinge has earned a distinctive place in World Series of Darts history despite losing the Australian Darts Masters final. The Australian averaged an impressive 104.56 in the Wollongong decider against James Wade, but the experienced Englishman ultimately claimed the title 8-5. Klinge thus posted the fourth-highest losing average ever in a World Series final, following in the footsteps of the likes of Michael van Gerwen and Phil Taylor.
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That makes the Australian’s performance all the more striking. In the final of the Australian Darts Masters, Klinge maintained his excellent form and produced stretches of heavy scoring. Yet it was Wade who made the difference at the key moments. The Englishman was unmoved by his opponent’s high level and pulled clear to win 8-5.
Even so, the final is a major boost for Klinge. His 104.56 average is higher than what many players need to win a World Series final. Only Michael van Gerwen, Phil Taylor, and Luke Littler have ever posted a higher average in a World Series final and still walked away empty-handed.
The outright record belongs to Michael van Gerwen. The Dutchman averaged a phenomenal 110.46 at the 2017 Dubai Darts Masters but lost the final to Gary Anderson. Two years earlier, Phil Taylor produced a similarly exceptional level in Dubai. “The Power” averaged 107.07 in the final against Van Gerwen, yet had to settle for second place.
Luke Littler also features in this select group. The Englishman averaged 106.71 in his 2024 Dubai Darts Masters final against Van Gerwen. Like Taylor and Van Gerwen, Littler could not turn his prolific scoring into the title.
Klinge now joins that illustrious company. It only underlines how impressive his run in Australia was. The 104.56 shows the Australian could match a seasoned name like Wade at the very highest level.
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Milestone for Wade

For Wade, the victory was special as well. The Englishman secured the first World Series title of his career. He had to dig deep to do it, with Klinge making life decidedly uncomfortable in the final. The Australian kept the pressure on and sustained his level, but Wade’s experience told when it mattered most.
Although Klinge ultimately missed out on the trophy, he did leave a notable statistical calling card. With a 104.56 average, his losing final ranks among the best performances ever by a runner-up in a World Series final. The Australian will look back with mixed feelings: the title went to Wade, but Klinge showed he is ready to mix it with the absolute elite.
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