World Seniors Matchplay 2023 draw announced: Includes rematch of 2001 & 2003 World Championship final as Taylor and Part meet in first round

Monday, 31 July 2023 at 16:00

The draw for the 2023 World Seniors Matchplay has been made. On September 2nd and 3rd, 16 players over the age of 50 will compete for the title at the senior tournament in York.

Most of the players were included in the field of participants by invitation. For example, former world champions such as Phil Taylor, John Part and Martin Adams all received wildcards. Some spots were available through the senior circuit in the United Kingdom, which is open to all darters over the age of 50 who do not have a PDC Tour Card.

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Robert Thornton is the defending champion at the World Seniors Matchplay. The Scot, also a two-time senior world champion on the World Seniors Darts Tour, begins his tournament against WDF world champion Neil Duff. Neil Duff will meet Trina Gulliver, who is the only female participant at this tournament.

Three-time Lakeside champion Martin Adams was paired with Kevin Painter in the draw. Also on this side of the tournament schedule are Glen Durrant and Jim McEwan.

Leonard Gates is the number two seed at this event. Gates, who crowned himself winner of the Champion of Champions tournament and the World Seniors Darts Masters earlier this year, crosses swords with Colin McGarry. John Henderson is competing in York for the first time in a televised tournament on the World Seniors Darts Tour. 'The Highlander' faces David Cameron.

Former Lakeside champion Scott Mitchell will play Paul Hogan in the first round, while 16-time world champion Phil Taylor and three-time world champion John Part will also battle for a spot in the last eight at the World Seniors Matchplay.