Each December, London’s Alexandra Palace transforms into the beating heart of darts, hosting the iconic PDC World Darts Championship. It’s become as much a Christmas tradition as turkey, Brussels, mulled wine, and cracker jokes.
For fans, the tournament isn’t just the biggest sporting event on the calendar, but it’s a celebration of skill, showmanship, and festive spirit. Bringing together the best players in the world, the World Championship is where legends are made and dreams are shattered, and 2025 promises to be no different.
This year is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Recent results from the World Matchplay, Players Championships, and World Grand Prix have shown just how competitive the sport has become, with surprise victories and high-quality performances making it clear that no one can be counted out.
The unpredictable nature of the tournament means the Darts World Championship odds are tighter than ever, as form and confidence can make all the difference when margins are this fine.
As we gear up for the 2025 edition of the Worlds, let’s take a look back at the last three winners, each of whom etched their name into darts history with unforgettable performances.
2024 — Luke Humphries
Luke Humphries captured his maiden PDC World title in 2024, defeating fellow Englishman Luke Littler in a hard-fought 7-4 final. ‘Cool Hand’ Luke showed his class by overturning a 4-2 deficit, winning five consecutive sets to clinch the crown in front of a roaring Ally Pally crowd.
Already the world number one before the tournament, Humphries cemented his status as the sport’s top player by lifting the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy and taking home the £500,000 prize. He arrived as the pre-event favourite and delivered on that promise with a championship-winning performance, overcoming some tough opponents — including the red-hot Scott Williams.
Humphries also showcased his consistency earlier in the year by retaining the Players Championship title with a commanding 11-7 victory over Littler. With his confidence sky-high, he enters the 2025 World Championship as one of the players to watch.
2023 — Michael Smith
The 2023 final will forever be remembered as one of the greatest matches in darts history. Michael Smith, affectionately known as “Bully Boy,” overcame three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen in a pulsating 7-4 victory that left the crowd at Ally Pally—and fans around the world—spellbound.
Smith’s incredible nine-dart finish during the second set became an instant classic, with Wayne Mardle’s ecstatic commentary on Sky cementing the moment in sporting folklore. It was a fitting highlight in a match filled with jaw-dropping brilliance from both players that saw the darts odds swing both ways across the evening.
The St Helens native’s triumph was the culmination of years of near-misses, as he finally captured his first PDC World Championship title.
2022 — Peter Wright
Peter Wright, with his colourful mohawk and flamboyant personality, lifted the World Darts Championship trophy for the second time in 2022.
In a thrilling final against Smith, Wright showcased his fighting spirit, coming from 5-4 down to secure a memorable 7-5 victory.
Smith appeared on the brink of glory, leading by two legs in the 10th set, but Wright’s experience and determination shone through. He rattled off three consecutive sets to claim the title, proving once again why he thrives in high-pressure moments, much like his win over Michael van Gerwen two years prior.
“Snakebite” Wright isn’t just known for his skill on the oche—his charisma and unique style make him one of the sport’s most recognisable and divisive figures. His triumph in 2022 brought out the best of the camaraderie and drama that darts fans have come to love.
