Gilding makes giant leap up Order of Merit after UK Open title, Van Gerwen narrows gap on Wright

Andrew Gilding's surprise final victory at the UK Open has earned 'Goldfinger' a substantial rise in the world rankings. Gilding beat Michael van Gerwen 11-10 in the final on Sunday night after a thriller.

He had started the tournament as number 41 in the world. With his title in Minehead, Gilding earned £110,000, moving him up to 25th place and with hardly any money to defend this year, he will likely be up towards the top 10 eventually.

Van Gerwen remained stuck in third place despite a final spot. He did narrow the gap on Michael Smith and Peter Wright, who currently occupy the top two spots.

One of the big losers in the rankings is James Wade. 'The Machine' had to retain his title from two years ago, but already lost in the fourth round. He lost five places and is now 14th. Among others, Dirk van Duijvenbode benefited. 'Aubergenius' now holds 11th position. Dimitri van den Bergh is now in tenth place due to his semi-final place.

Other tournament sensations Adam Gawlas and Richie Burnett also made big leaps up the world rankings. Gawlas was allowed to swap 62nd place for 48th after reaching the semi-finals. Burnett rose from 78 to 71.