I was looking at the PDC Development Tour scores today and there are some big names getting big results. This led me to think, it is only a matter of time before many of these players break through to the Pro Tour and start mixing it with the very best.
I suppose Luke Littler is an anomaly and has risen to the top in at an unbelieveable rate. This is certainly not the norm. My thinking is how will the top 10 look like in 10 years, as normally takes a few years to build up and defend prize money.
The rise of Littler has coincided with the rise in the popularity in darts in general, and espcially with young fans and players. This has led to the JDC and PDC Development Tour becoming among the most popular of all the tours, and is where the next wave of top class players will come from.
Now there are some players that have been around the top 10 or so for years, even decades. However I firmly believe that there is a shift happening. The top 32, and eventually the top 10, is going to have a big shake up.
I will be running a model over the next few days, to try and use a statistical method on a Top 10 in 2035, but for now, it's just my own thoughts on what the top 10 could be come December 2035.
Top 10 (in no particular order)
Luke Littler
He is too good not to be still at the very top of the game. Assuming he doesn't get embroiled with the distractions of fame, he will continue to be the standard for the next decade.
Luke Humphries
Alongside, Luke Litter, Humphries is setting new standards, and I believe he can improve even more. He is still relatively young, in darts terms. His approach to keeping healthy in mind and body, will keep him sharp.
Gian Van Veen
Some may disagree, but in terms of ability, I'd rate Van Veen equal to Littler He hits 105+ averages with regularity. I believe he may need a little more mental toughness, but if that comes, he will be around at the top for many years.
Wessel NIjman
Another of the young Dutch players that is consistently hitting the big scores. Nijman and Van Veen can really push each other, much like their predecessors Van Gerwen and Van Barneveld.
Beau Greaves
Yes, deadly serious. Beau is competing with the very best. To qualify via the the PDC Development Tour, to the main tour is no mean feat. She is playing at the highest standard, and will only get better as she gains more experience playing against the very best players in the world.
Dominik Gruellich
.A bit of a wild card, but Gruellich as proven himself on the Pro Tour in his first year. He seems to be ultra consistent, and has been a real player on the Development Tour.
Michael van Gerwen
I can't see Van Gerwen dropping outside of the top 10 anytime soon. Despite dips in form, I think we are comparing him to the days where he won absolutely everything. He is still one of the best players in the world and I don't think he will lose pace just yet.
Josh Rock
Prior to Littler, Josh Rock was touted as the next big thing. And perhaps this was seen as a false dawn to start with. However, paricularly in 2025, Rock has shown he is the real deal. He is back to his best, winning the World Cup with Daryl Gurney, and is going from strength to strength.
Charlie Manby
Another wild card of sorts, Charlie Manby seems to be flying through the ranks and improving at a great rate. He hit a 130 average during one of his Development Tour games, which must demand attention. If he doesn't automatically qualify for the 2026 Pro Tour, he should ease through Q School.
Tergel KurelKhuu
Wild card number three. Tergel is an unbelievable talent. Those in the JDC circles know all about him . He would win more competitions, but living in Mongolia can make things tricky. However he is one of the best under 18 players in the world . With more experience he will show what he can do. There is no question of his amazing talent.
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