"He's got to be one who's going to win a major" - Ross Smith puts forward his prediction for next maiden major winner

The recent PDC major titles have predominantly all gone the way of world number one Luke Littler, but the chasing pack are lurking and hopeful of seizing their chances. One of which is Wessel Nijman who has been touted by Ross Smith to be the next new major champion.

Already this year Nijman has been one of the standout players with his remarkable consistency which has transitioned between the floor and stage. He has won eight PDC ranking titles in 2026, six of them coming on the Players Championship circuit.

He also showcased his immense talent on the big stage. Question marks were around his form with the spotlights on him but title runs at the European Darts Trophy and Slovak Darts Open prove that he has what it takes to win the biggest accolades in the sport.

Smudger, who has also won two European Tour titles this year, is convinced that the young Dutchman will succeed at the highest level. The former European champion lavishly praised Nijman.

Speaking to talkSPORT, he was pitched the question of who would be the next major winner that maybe not everyone would expect. "Wessel Nijman. He's got to be one who's going to win a major," Smith said.

"He's winning, well, he's won a European Tour, he's picking up Players Championship titles, and his attitude — he comes across really well. He's a hard-working young lad."

The sky is the limit for Nijman, according to Smith. "I'm sure, you know, the world's his oyster. He conducts himself well on stage. I like when it's a crucial point in a game, we'll see him walk back to the table, take a few deep breaths and get on with it. But yeah, he conducts himself well."

Both players will be contending for the Czech Darts Open. The number one and two in Europe by a long way, they will be hopeful of glory in Prague before a string of major events take their attention. The World Grand Prix, World Series of Darts Finals, European Championship, Grand Slam of Darts and Players Championship Finals all lead up to the PDC World Darts Championship in a busy period for the players.