Gary Anderson's love affair with the Grand Slam of Darts: No one has played more matches at this top tournament

The Grand Slam of Darts is one of the most prestigious tournaments in the darts year. Since its first edition in 2007, both PDC and BDO players have met in this unique format, which makes for spectacular matches and unforgettable moments. One of the interesting statistics often discussed is the number of matches played by individual players in this tournament. It gives insight not only into the consistency of players, but also into their experience and perseverance at the highest level.

At the head of this list is Gary Anderson, "The Flying Scotsman," who has played a whopping 87 matches in the Grand Slam of Darts. Anderson, known for his smooth throw and nonchalant hold, has been a fixture in this tournament and has delivered countless memorable moments. This year, Anderson is at it again.

The 54-year-old Scot previously indicated that the Grand Slam of Darts is his favorite tournament. Yet he has never, ever managed to win the Grand Slam of Darts, after all, he lost in the final in 2011 and 2018.

In second place is Michael van Gerwen with 84 matches played. 'Mighty Mike' won the tournament in 2015, 2016 and 2017 and hits far at this major almost every year, making his high number of matches logical. His rivalry with players such as Anderson, James Wade and Phil Taylor has led to some of the most iconic moments in recent darts history. It is notable that Van Gerwen and Anderson are assigned to the same group this year, with Niko Springer and Beau Greaves also competing.

James Wade follows with 81 matches. 'The Machine' - already good for finals at the UK Open and World Matchplay this year - is known for his consistency and is traditionally very good on the doubles as well. While he may not be mentioned as often as some of his rivals, he has played an impressive number of matches, testament to his longstanding presence at the top level. Wade has been a three-time losing finalist at the Grand Slam of Darts. This year, the 42-year-old is once again competing, he is assigned to a group with Gerwyn Price, Ricky Evans and Stefan Bellmont.

Other big names on the list include Phil Taylor with 69 matches, Raymond van Barneveld with 63 and Peter Wright with 54. Taylor dominated darts for years and brought considerable prestige to the tournament. He won the tournament no less than six times; no one ever did better. Van Barneveld, winner in 2012, also made a strong impression, while Wright lost the final three times.

Players such as Michael Smith (51 matches), Dave Chisnall (45), Adrian Lewis (44), Simon Whitlock (44), Mervyn King (41) and Gerwyn Price (41) also made their mark in the tournament.

The Grand Slam of Darts 2025 kicks off next Saturday in Wolverhampton. Luke Littler starts the tournament as the defending champion, after being too strong for Martin Lukeman in the final last year, 16-3. Littler is assigned to a pool this year that also includes Daryl Gurney, Connor Scutt and Karel Sedlacek.