The 2024 Betfred World Matchplay darts tournament continues on July 19 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, England, featuring high-stakes second-round action. Fans looking to follow the event can access live coverage through official broadcasting partners, including Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and DAZN in various international territories, with streaming options available via the PDC’s official digital platforms.
Tournament Context and Venue
The World Matchplay, one of the most prestigious events on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar, returns to its traditional home at the Empress Ballroom in the Winter Gardens. The tournament utilizes a unique knockout format where matches must be won by a margin of two legs. If the score reaches a certain threshold, the match enters a tie-break scenario, adding significant pressure to each throw.
As the tournament progresses, the field narrows, and the intensity within the historic Blackpool venue increases. According to official PDC scheduling, the sessions on July 19 are critical for players aiming to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. The event is a ranking major, meaning performance here directly impacts the PDC Order of Merit and qualification standings for future televised events.
How to Watch: TV and Streaming Details
Global audiences can access live coverage through several authorized channels. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports remains the primary broadcaster, providing comprehensive coverage of both the afternoon and evening sessions. For viewers in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, DAZN holds the rights to stream the matches, often providing German-language commentary for the duration of the tournament.
The PDC also facilitates global access through its dedicated streaming service, PDCTV, for regions where local broadcast rights may be restricted or unavailable. Fans should verify their local listings, as start times for sessions can vary based on the match schedule. Afternoon sessions typically begin at 1:00 PM BST (12:00 PM UTC), while evening sessions generally commence at 7:00 PM BST (6:00 PM UTC).
Stakes and Player Performance
The 2024 edition features a highly competitive field, including top-ranked players such as Luke Littler, Michael van Gerwen, and reigning champion Nathan Aspinall. Each match represents a significant opportunity for players to climb the rankings. The prize money distribution remains a primary focus for participants, as the total purse influences the end-of-year standings.
Tactical adjustments are common in the World Matchplay due to the longer format compared to standard tour events. Players must demonstrate consistency over an extended period, as the “win by two” rule can lead to marathon matches if competitors remain neck-and-neck. Analysts often highlight the importance of the starting leg and the ability to maintain composure during the latter stages of a match.
Following the Tournament
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including live scores, leg-by-leg statistics, and post-match interviews, viewers should rely on the official Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) website. The site provides a real-time match center that tracks every dart thrown, providing deeper insights than broadcast commentary alone.
The tournament is scheduled to run through July 21, culminating in the final. Supporters are encouraged to monitor the official PDC social media channels for any adjustments to the schedule or last-minute updates regarding player availability. As the event proceeds toward the final rounds, the focus will shift to the potential for new record-breaking averages and the battle for the Phil Taylor Trophy.
The next major checkpoint in the tournament will be the conclusion of the second round, which sets the bracket for the quarter-finals starting on July 19 and 20. Stay tuned to official channels for the confirmed order of play as the tournament nears its climax.
