PREVIEW: 2024 World Seniors Darts Masters - No Taylor but title fight still continues in Sunderland

Darts enthusiasts are gearing up for the third edition of the World Seniors Darts Masters, set to take place this week in Sunderland. The event, which showcases the talents of seasoned players over the age of 50 who no longer hold PDC Tour Cards, promises intense competition, upsets, and a display of darts mastery the players have honed over decades of experience.

What is the World Seniors Darts Masters?

Organised by the World Seniors Darts Tour (WSDT), this tournament has quickly solidified its place as a premier event for veteran players. The WSDT’s creation came in response to the widespread desire for a competitive platform where darts legends and older professionals could continue showcasing their abilities. This circuit taps into nostalgia while proving that age is no barrier to excellence on the oche.

The World Seniors Darts Masters is emblematic of the spirit behind the WSDT, championing the enduring passion for darts and celebrating players who were once household names in the sport. The tournament allows fans to relive the golden moments of darts while creating new memories with their favourite icons. Whilst these players may not be in the prime of their career, they haven’t lost the magic that allowed many of them to once light up the PDC tour.

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What happened to Phil Taylor?

This year’s event carries an extra layer of emotion, as it was originally billed as the final appearance of darts legend Phil Taylor. Unfortunately, Taylor's withdrawal due to lingering effects from recent hip surgery has dashed hopes of a fairytale farewell. The 16-time world champion has faced significant physical challenges over the past year, including a tear in scar tissue that has kept him from competing at peak form.

Reflecting on his struggles, Taylor said, “Everything was going fine, but then I just did a little too much and apparently I've torn my scar tissue. So yeah, it's a bit painful.” This injury forced him to miss the World Seniors Matchplay earlier and ends his competitive aspirations on the circuit. It’s a real shame, as the fans in Sunderland were ready to give the sport’s most legendary player the ultimate send off.

In more positive news, however, Taylor will still be in Sunderland, taking up commentary duties to offer his invaluable insights to fans. We’re sure the crowd will still be ready to go wild every time ‘The Power’ appears on the big screen.

What happened last year?

The 2023 World Seniors Darts Masters was defined by the dominance of Leonard Gates, who stormed his way to victory over Richie Howson in an epic final. Gates, who is one of the most dominant players in the senior game, seized an early 2-0 lead and maintained control through strategic play and consistent finishing. Despite Howson’s efforts to mount a comeback and bring the score to 3-2, Gates’ superior form secured his 6-3 victory, cementing his place in senior darts history.

This showdown was a rematch of their clash in the Champion of Champions final earlier that year, where Gates also triumphed. His absence this year, due to his qualification for the Grand Slam of Darts, leaves an open field and adds intrigue to the upcoming matches.

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When was the first edition?

The first-ever World Seniors Darts Masters in 2022 was a great debut for the event, and it brought an upset to the headlines immediately. David Cameron, who had just faced a disappointing early exit at the WDF World Championship, decided to compete in the qualifier rather than returning home to Canada. That decision proved fateful, as Cameron blazed through the competition, defeating notable players including Kevin Painter, Robert Thornton, Colin Monk, and ultimately overcoming Phil Taylor in the final with a 6-3 sets victory.

Taylor had his moments, producing checkouts like a 100 finish and a 116 that showcased to any doubters he still had it. However, Cameron’s precision, particularly when the pressure was on, led him to a superb win. His performance exemplified the unpredictability and excitement of the World Seniors circuit.

Who are the ones to watch in 2024?

With Taylor and Gates absent, focus shifts to the current lineup of competitors, including some formidable names.

John Henderson

The 51-year-old Scotsman and reigning senior world champion, is set to face Scott Mitchell in what promises to be an early highlight. Their five most recent encounters stand at 3-2 in Henderson's favour, indicating a balanced matchup that could swing either way.

Richie Howson

Ranked just behind Henderson and Gates, is back seeking redemption. His first-round bout against Tony O’Shea is particularly significant, as O’Shea filled in for Taylor in the World Seniors Matchplay and is hungry for a deeper run.

Robert Thornton

Another favourite, has historically never lost to his first-round opponent Trina Gulliver. He aims to capitalize on this advantage to build momentum towards another title challenge.

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The Tournament Schedule

The action begins on Friday, November 8, with first-round matches divided into afternoon and evening sessions. Headlining these sessions are:

Afternoon session:

Lisa Ashton vs. Matt Clark

Paul Hogan vs. Glen Durrant

Robert Thornton vs. Trina Gulliver

Richard Rowlands vs. Andrew Kateley

Evening session:

Martin Adams vs. Chris Mason

Neil Duff vs. Darryl Fitton

John Henderson vs. Scott Mitchell

Richie Howson vs. Tony O’Shea

The winners will advance to the quarterfinals on Saturday, November 9, followed by the semifinals and the final in the evening session, concluding an event that promises nostalgia and top-level competition.

What to expect

The World Seniors Darts Masters not only highlights the skill and consistency of these players but also underlines the enduring appeal of senior darts. While the absence of major figures like Taylor and Gates shifts the dynamics, it opens up opportunities for others to shine and leave their mark. This tournament is a reminder of the legacy of darts’ greats and the relentless passion that keeps them competing year after year.

As the 2024 edition unfolds, all eyes will be on the veterans who have given so much to the sport, now stepping up to write a new chapter in their storied careers. Whilst we know most darts fans will be pinned to the screening watching the Mr Vegas Grand Slam of Darts, be sure to keep your eye on the senior players too.

Whether it's a new champion emerging or familiar faces fighting for glory, the World Seniors Darts Masters is sure to bring with it some epic contests.

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