2026 Paddy Power World Darts Championship — Day 5 Preview

As the festive season darts spectacle enters its fifth day, Alexandra Palace is once again primed for blockbuster action at the 2026 Paddy Power World Darts Championship. With the early rounds in full swing, Monday’s double-session lineup delivers a mix of established stars, intriguing challengers and compelling mouth-watering matchups that can reshape the race into the second round. From afternoon surprises to evening fireworks, everyone at Ally Pally will be tuned in as eight of the world’s best take the oche in one of darts’ most iconic events. Yahoo Sports

After a thrilling opening four days — where youth, experience and sheer class have all had their say — the tournament continues to showcase its expanded 128-player field. Defending champion Luke Littler remains the headline act for the event as a whole, but Day 5 swings into focus on a fresh slate of Round One and early Round Two fixtures that could easily throw up shock results. Sky Sports.

There’s also been plenty of broader storylines heading into the day: from the continued buzz around Littler’s dominant form to historic performances from veteran competitors, the tournament has breathed life into darts’ unique blend of athletic skill and electric atmosphere.

Afternoon Session — 12:30pm (GMT)

Brendan Dolan vs. Tavis Dudeney

Day 5 starts with a tantalising battle as seasoned campaigner Brendan Dolan takes on qualifier Tavis Dudeney. Dolan — known for his big stage experience and ability to raise his game at the World Championship — will be expected to handle the pressure here, but Dudeney’s presence on this stage is a reminder of how deadly qualifiers can be if given room to breathe.

Cameron Menzies vs. Charlie Manby

Next up, Scotsman Cameron Menzies opposes England’s Charlie Manby in a matchup that pits Menzies’ measured consistency against Manby’s raw competitive hunger. Menzies has shown flashes of brilliance on the Pro Tour, and if he finds that rhythm early, this could be a one-way ticket for Manby out of the tournament.

Mensur Suljovic vs. David Cameron

Up next, the ever-entertaining Mensur Suljovic steps onto the Alexandra Palace stage against David Cameron. The “Gentle” one’s unique throwing style and experience at world level make him a dangerous opponent for any debutant, and if Suljovic finds his scoring boots early, this could be a sizeable test for Cameron.

Peter Wright vs. Noa-Lynn van Leuven

Ending the afternoon session is perhaps the standout tie — Peter “Snakebite” Wright against qualifier Noa-Lynn van Leuven. Wright’s flamboyant personality and elite pedigree have long made him a fan favourite and a genuine title contender. Yet world darts is never short of upsets, especially when a determined underdog finds their groove in front of the Ally Pally crowd. Expect an electric atmosphere and plenty of colour both on and off the oche.

Evening Session — 7pm (GMT)

Martin Lukeman vs. Max Hopp

The evening slate kicks off with Martin Lukeman taking on Germany’s Max Hopp. Lukeman’s tenacity — highlighted by some gutsy performances already this week — will be tested by Hopp’s clinical scoring ability. With both players capable of big averages, this opens as a fascinating clash that could easily go either way.

Dirk van Duijvenbode vs. Andy Baetens

Following that, “The Titan” Dirk van Duijvenbode goes head-to-head with Belgium’s Andy Baetens. Duijvenbode’s trademark intensity and powerful scoring mean he’ll be a more seasoned favourite, but don’t discount Baetens if he arrives firing; European qualifiers have upset big names before in the early rounds.

Jonny Clayton vs. Adam Lipscombe

Next, five-time major winner Jonny “The Ferret” Clayton begins his bid with a clash against Adam Lipscombe. Clayton’s calm genius on the oche — tempered by experience in televised finals — gives him a significant edge, but Lipscombe’s debutant status means there’s little to lose and everything to gain in this underdog role.

Connor Scutt vs. Simon Whitlock

To close out the night session, we have Connor Scutt versus Australian legend Simon Whitlock. Whitlock’s old-school nous and battlefield experience can never be underestimated, while Scutt’s form and youthful confidence make this an unpredictable tie with real upset potential. Yahoo Sports

What To Expect

Day 5 might not have the headline name of Littler on the board (his match takes place later in the week), but the action here is a quintessential snapshot of why darts at Alexandra Palace is among sport’s most compelling spectacles: seasoned pros, hungry newcomers, and potential storylines that could echo into the later stages. The mix of Round One conclusion and early Round Two intrigue means every leg matters — whether it’s a seasoned campaigner stamping authority or an exciting new talent now taste-testing life at darts’ biggest stage.

Expect a vociferous crowd, plenty of high checkout finishes, and the unpredictable flair that only the Paddy Power World Championship can deliver. Here’s hoping Day 5 brings drama, intensity and plenty of reasons for fans to stay glued to the action.