Quick exit Van Gerwen, good news for Cullen | Darts

In London, the Dutchman also had to recognize his superior in Smith. Defeat doesn’t hurt him. Van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton and James Wade already knew prior to the last regular round that they were assured of a ticket for the final evening on Monday 13 June. The fourth and final proof for the final round was given in Newcastle on Thursday evening.

In a duel between themselves, Cullen and world champion Wright decided who got that last coveted ticket. The men turned it into a blood-curdling game, in which the tension increased with the leg. In the tenth leg, Cullen eventually broke the world number one, securing the final night.

The match in Newcastle was won by Smith, who defeated Clayton (6-3) in the final.