Ross Smith emerged victorious in a thrilling final against Wesley Plaisier to claim the Players Championship 13 title in Milton Keynes. This victory marked Smith’s fifth PDC ranking title, as he showcased exceptional darts throughout the tournament.
Smith’s path to victory included impressive wins over top players like Jermaine Wattimena, Kevin Doets, Ricky Evans, and Jonny Clayton. In the semi-finals, he defeated Andy Boulton with a commanding 7-2 performance, setting the stage for a high-quality final showdown against Plaisier.
The final match was a closely contested battle, with both players maintaining averages above 107. Smith took an early lead, but Plaisier fought back strongly, showcasing his skills with impressive checkouts of 144 and 167. The match went down to the wire, with Smith eventually securing the win with a 107 average.
Reflecting on his victory, Smith praised Plaisier for his resilience and acknowledged the importance of winning a final after facing disappointments earlier in the year. He emphasized the role of confidence and belief in his success, expressing his determination to continue striving for more wins.
Plaisier’s journey to the final was equally impressive, marking his best performance on the ProTour since last September. The young talent Cam Crabtree also made waves by reaching the semi-finals, defeating established players like Danny Noppert and James Wade along the way.
The event saw notable players like James Wade, Jonny Clayton, and Niels Zonneveld making strong runs, while rising stars like Luke Littler and Wessel Nijman showcased their potential with promising performances. The competition also had surprises, with top players like Peter Wright and Gerwyn Price being knocked out early on.
With the Players Championship 14 on the horizon, players like Wade are vying for qualification to the prestigious Blackpool showpiece, adding further excitement to the upcoming tournament. The event’s results and draws can be accessed through the Match Centre and DartConnect, offering fans comprehensive coverage of the darts action.
Overall, the Players Championship 13 delivered thrilling matches, unexpected upsets, and standout performances, highlighting the depth of talent in the darts world. As the players gear up for future challenges, fans can look forward to more exciting moments and intense rivalries in the world of professional darts.