Rob Cross emerged victorious in the Darts Players Championship of 2025, securing an 8-3 win over Joe Cullen in a thrilling finale held in Wigan. Luke Littler, on the other hand, faced defeat in the third round, setting the stage for Cross to claim the crown. This triumph marked a significant achievement for Cross, especially after facing challenges in the past year’s Players Championship series.
Cross, known for his prowess in the darts arena, had previously clinched the Dutch Darts Masters title just a month ago. His success in Wigan further solidified his position as one of the top eight players in the Premier League Darts. Fans eagerly anticipated his performance, which was set to continue in Glasgow, with the matches broadcasted live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+.
Reflecting on his recent victory, Cross expressed, “I’ve been adamant for the last four months. I’m hit and miss but when I find it, I can play some special darts.” He candidly shared insights into his struggles and growth, noting, “After last year’s experience [at the Players Championship series], it’s nice to win again. I was lazy at times last year but was too stubborn and wanted to spend time with the family.”
The tournament showcased Cross’s exceptional skills as he outplayed opponents such as Rob Owen, Owen Bates, James Hurrell, and Carl Sneyd to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. A particularly intense match against Jermaine Wattimena tested Cross’s mettle, but he emerged victorious with a 6-5 win. The semi-finals saw Cross face off against Andrew Gilding, whom he defeated decisively with a 7-3 score.
In the final showdown, Cross took an early lead with a 3-0 advantage, only for Cullen to mount a comeback, narrowing the gap to 3-2. However, Cross maintained his composure and ultimately claimed victory by winning five of the next six legs, sealing his second title on the PDC circuit for the year.
Joe Cullen, despite falling short in the final, displayed remarkable dexterity throughout the championship. His journey to the runners-up spot included victories over Greg Ritchie, Scott Williams, and a notable win against Luke Littler. Cullen’s resilience shone through as he navigated challenging matchups, culminating in an impressive performance in Wigan.
As the darts community celebrates the success of the Players Championship, the anticipation builds for the upcoming events. With a second championship scheduled in Wigan, fans can expect more thrilling matches and fierce competition. Stay tuned for the next night of Premier League Darts 2025, airing live from Glasgow on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports+.
The world of darts continues to captivate audiences with its blend of skill, strategy, and sheer excitement. Whether it’s a seasoned player like Rob Cross claiming victory or rising stars like Joe Cullen showcasing their talent, each match brings its own unique flair to the sport. As the championship unfolds, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this thrilling journey of darts excellence.
