Niels Zonneveld sees rhythm of Haupai Puha as possible stumbling block in first round at World Darts Championship: "He is a slow player, that is less easy"

Niels Zonneveld can look forward to an interesting first round at the 2026 World Darts Championship. The Dutchman will meet the experienced New Zealander Haupai Puha, a name that is by no means unfamiliar to him this season. In a video interview with Viaplay, Zonneveld commented on the draw.

"It could have been easier and it could have been harder," Zonneveld began realistically. "What to say about it? If I'm just good, then I have a good chance. Only: he's a slow player, so that might be a little less easy. But it could have been worse."

When asked if he has played against Puha before, Zonneveld did not have to think long. "Yes, quite a few times. I think I've had him four times this year," he said. "Won four times?" he was asked. "No, not that. But 3-1 for me, I think," 'Triple Z' said honestly. That fact may just play into the players' minds. Clearly, Zonneveld knows Puha well - and that possibly works in his favor.

Although some players completely overhaul their workouts toward a World Championship, Zonneveld plans to stick to his established routine. "I just want to do what I do all year," he explained. "I feel like that works. I'm in good shape this year. So I'm just going to do my own thing, train nicely, and then I look forward to it with confidence."

It was pointed out to him in the studio that he has not been seen on television very often this year. Zonneveld acknowledged that, but still looks back on his season positively. "I just fell short at the big tournaments because I wasn't standard seeded for the Euro Tour tournaments yet. Hopefully I can turn that around next year. I want to be present at the bigger tournaments. Otherwise I was very close this year, even though I did not play that many Euro Tours," he concluded.