Bullseye! Dubai to host world’s biggest darts stars

Dubai will host the opening event of the Professional Darts Corporation's 2016 World Series of Darts, which features six international tournaments ahead of a season-ending World Series Finals.

The world's biggest darts stars will compete in the fourth staging of the Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters on May 26-27, as Michael van Gerwen bids to continue his incredible run of success at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.  

The eight-player Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters was first held in 2013 and has been won for the past three years by Dutch star van Gerwen, the current world number one who has been untouchable in the unique open-air arena.

Van Gerwen defeated Raymond van Barneveld in the inaugural final, saw off Peter Wright to retain the title in 2014 and then defeated the legendary Phil Taylor last May – and all three will be amongst his rivals for this year's title.

Reigning World Champion Gary Anderson, two-time World Champion Adrian Lewis, multiple major winner James Wade and Premier League star Dave Chisnall will complete the eight-player line-up for the Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters.

Play kicks off with the four quarter-finals on Thursday May 26, with the last four players returning on Friday May 27 to compete in the semi-finals and final.

"I can't wait to get back to Dubai," said van Gerwen. "The Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters is a special event and I've loved playing there for the last three years.

"I'll be doing everything I can to make it four in a row in May but there are eight great players in the tournament so I know it will be tough.

"It's a great venue and it will be a fantastic way to start this year's World Series of Darts."

“This is the third year for this tournament which has grown in popularity and attracts the top players who love competing in Dubai,” said Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice Chairman of Dubai Duty Free.

“The outdoor venue at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, the enthusiastic crowds and the worldwide viewership, combine to make this a great social and sporting event,” he said.

Following the Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters, the eight stars will compete in further World Series of Darts events in New Zealand, China, Japan and Australia before taking part in the World Series Finals in Scotland in November.

“The Dubai Duty Free Darts Masters has been a huge success for the past three years and we're already looking forward to another brilliant event this May,” said Barry Hearn, Chairman, Professional Darts Corporation (PDC).

"Playing at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium creates a unique challenge for our players but one that they've risen to, particularly in 2015 during a thrilling two days. This year's tournament promises to be another great event,” he added.

Tickets for the event, to be hosted at the Irish Village, are on sale now, with VIP Tickets available to include table.

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