World Series of Darts Finals seeds and invitations set as Anderson declines invite

The stage is set for one of the most eagerly anticipated tournaments of the darts calendar, as the 2025 Jack’s Casino World Series of Darts Finals heads to Amsterdam next month. A star-studded lineup, including reigning champion Luke Littler, world number one Luke Humphries and top seed Stephen Bunting, will battle it out at AFAS Live from September 12-14.

Notably, Gary Anderson has turned down the invitation to play at the World Series of Darts finals.

This PDC Premier Event will bring together 32 of the world’s best players, with 26 qualification spots already locked in. Fans in the Dutch capital are guaranteed three days of high drama as established champions and rising talents aim to etch their names into the history of the World Series.

Littler Aiming for More History

Defending champion Luke Littler returns to Amsterdam with momentum firmly on his side. The teenage sensation has already claimed back-to-back World Series titles this summer, lifting trophies in both Australia and New Zealand. Now, he has his sights set on defending the crown he won in the Netherlands last year.

Littler’s meteoric rise has been one of the biggest stories in world sport, and his ability to thrive under pressure has quickly made him a fan favourite. If he can successfully retain his title, he will further cement his reputation as one of the most remarkable young talents darts has ever seen.

Bunting Leads the Seeded Players

Heading the field as the number one seed is Stephen Bunting. The 2025 World Series Rankings leader has enjoyed a terrific year on tour, capturing titles in Bahrain and Copenhagen to solidify his position among the game’s elite.

Bunting is joined by a formidable lineup of seeded stars, including Poland Masters champion Gerwyn Price, Dutch Masters winner Rob Cross, US Masters champion Luke Humphries, and Chris Dobey. Nathan Aspinall and Mike De Decker complete the list of eight seeded players, ensuring that the opening rounds in Amsterdam will feature a mix of heavyweights and dangerous floaters.

Former Champions Return

No World Series Finals would feel complete without Michael van Gerwen, and the five-time champion once again takes his place among the qualifiers. The Dutchman will have strong home support at AFAS Live as he looks to add another title to his glittering collection.

Another iconic figure returning is Raymond van Barneveld. The Dutch legend continues to defy expectations and will relish another chance to perform in front of a passionate home crowd. Together, Van Gerwen and Van Barneveld will carry the hopes of the Netherlands on what promises to be a memorable weekend.

Global Representation

The 2025 field reflects the international growth of darts, with representatives from across the globe. Oceanic stalwarts Simon Whitlock, Haupai Puha and Jonny Tata will fly the flag for Australia and New Zealand, while American duo Danny Lauby and Jason Brandon are set for their World Series Finals debuts.

Elsewhere, Polish star Krzysztof Ratajski, Scotland’s Peter Wright, and Wales’ Jonny Clayton are among the high-profile names already confirmed. Notably, both Paolo Nebrida and Gary Anderson declined their invitations, creating opportunities for others to step onto the big stage.

Additional Qualifiers

Alongside the seeded players and World Series qualifiers, four names from the Werner Rankings Ladder have been confirmed. Former major winners James Wade and Dave Chisnall will compete, joined by Ross Smith and Dutchman Danny Noppert.

The final six places in the 32-man field will be determined at the Tour Card Holder Qualifier in Milton Keynes on Wednesday, August 27. That event is expected to be fiercely competitive as players battle for a last-minute chance to secure their ticket to Amsterdam.

Tournament Schedule

The action begins on Friday, September 12, with the first round split across the Friday evening and Saturday afternoon sessions. The second round follows on Saturday night, setting the stage for a thrilling final day.

Sunday, September 14, will see the tournament reach its climax. The quarter-finals will be contested in the afternoon, before the evening session hosts the semi-finals and the final itself. With so much talent on display, fans can expect fireworks from start to finish.

Looking Ahead

With a field stacked with champions, rising stars and seasoned veterans, the 2025 Jack’s Casino World Series of Darts Finals is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions yet. Littler will be desperate to defend his crown, but with the likes of Bunting, Humphries, Van Gerwen and Price all chasing glory, the road to victory will be anything but straightforward.

For fans, Amsterdam offers the perfect setting to watch the world’s best go head-to-head. The question is simple: will Littler write yet another chapter in his remarkable journey, or will one of darts’ established stars reclaim the spotlight?

One thing is certain – from September 12-14, the AFAS Live will be the centre of the darting world.

World Series of Darts Finals seeds and invitations set as Anderson declines invite 

2025 Jack’s World Series of Darts Finals

September 13-15

AFAS Live, Amsterdam

World Series Rankings Qualifiers

(1) Stephen Bunting

(2) Luke Littler

(3) Gerwyn Price

(4) Luke Humphries

(5) Rob Cross

(6) Chris Dobey

(7) Nathan Aspinall

(8) Mike de Decker

Damon Heta

Michael van Gerwen

Josh Rock

Peter Wright

Jonny Clayton

Raymond van Barneveld

Kevin Doets

Jermaine Wattimena

Danny Lauby

Jason Brandon

Krzysztof Ratajski

Haupai Puha

Simon Whitlock

Jonny Tata

Werner Rankings Ladder Qualifiers

James Wade (England)

Dave Chisnall (England)

Ross Smith (England)

Danny Noppert (Netherlands)

Tour Card Holder Qualifiers

x6 TBC – Tour Card Holder Qualifier to take place on Wednesday August 27