Quest for Q School: WDF World Championship Preview

The WDF World Championship begins tomorrow (28th November), and as always, it’s an event I really look forward to. While the PDC World Championship has the big names, the big crowds and the huge prize money, the WDF event still holds a special place in the sport. It carries the history, the roots, and the opportunity for amateur and semi-professional players to shine on a genuinely world stage.

Some people say the standard isn’t as high as the PDC, but I don’t think that’s always true. Yes, the very top PDC players regularly throw 100+ averages, but the WDF field is packed with talent: former PDC Tour Card holders, Challenge Tour winners, and leading WDF pros who have battled through tough qualifying events just to reach Lakeside. It deserves to be seen as its own World Championship, not simply compared to the PDC version.

With that in mind, here are six men and six women I think are worth keeping a close eye on this year. The fields are competitive, especially in the women’s tournament where the absence of Beau Greaves makes things feel wide open.

Men’s WDF World Championship – Six to Watch

Jimmy van Schie
The number one seed and it’s fully deserved. He has been ultra-consistent all season, picking up titles and deep runs everywhere he’s played. His decision to focus mainly on the WDF tour has paid off and he will be very hard to beat.

Shane McGuirk
The reigning champion. Some fans saw his win as a surprise last year, but those who follow the sport closely know how good he is. Tough, steady, and mentally strong. He will not hand his title back without a serious fight.

Jenson Walker
A talented young player who has transitioned from the junior ranks into senior WDF events with ease. He represented England at youth level and even won the Boys’ World Championship. This season he has stepped up again and is capable of beating anyone in the draw.

David Pallett
One of the most consistent performers on the circuit. A former PDC player with experience and quality, he has picked up titles this year and has been close in others. He doesn’t give away many chances. A real danger man.

Jason Brandon
The leading hope from outside Europe. A 2024 semi-finalist and one of North America’s strongest players, he has built real momentum across both the WDF and US darts circuits. Could easily go deep again.

Mitchell Lawrie
One of the most exciting teenagers in world darts. Dominant at junior level and already winning senior events, he plays without fear and handles pressure remarkably well. Some are already comparing him to Luke Littler.He has a genuine shot at the title.

Women’s WDF World Championship – Six to Watch

Lerena Rietbergen

The number one seed and a multiple title winner on the WDF circuit. She skipped the PDC Women’s Series to focus on WDF events, and it’s worked. With Beau Greaves absent, Rietbergen has a huge chance to claim this prestigious title.

Rhian O’Sullivan
The bookmakers’ favourite, and rightly so. She has been excellent on both the WDF tour and the PDC Women’s Series. When she’s on it, Rhian can match the very best in the women’s game. Experience and form make her a major contender.

Lorraine Hyde
Scotland’s captain and one of the most experienced players in the field. She has played strongly on both major women’s circuits this year and picked up some standout wins. A real threat with her track record.

Nicole Regnaud
Travelling from New Zealand and rarely in Europe, but her quality has never gone unnoticed. A previous Lakeside competitor who has performed well without quite getting the results she deserved. A dangerous player if she finds her scoring early.

Sophie McKinlay
Runner-up last year and part of the exciting new crop of young female talent. Still a teenager but already a major finalist .She will have learned a lot from 2024 and will be determined to go one better.

Irina Armstrong
Often overlooked but a real class act. She’s enjoyed plenty of success across the WDF tour and brings huge experience with her. If she produces her A-game, she could easily reach the latter stages.

Final Thoughts

The WDF World Championship may not have the glitz of the PDC version, but it has heart, history, and huge competitive value. It remains a showcase for rising stars, seasoned veterans, and talented players who haven’t followed the traditional PDC route. With both the men’s and women’s tournaments looking wide open this year, this could be one of the most exciting editions yet.