Michael van Gerwen's title defence at the World Series of Darts Finals ended in the first round on Saturday afternoon, with Daryl Gurney pulling off a 6-5 upset after van Gerwen missed six match darts.
Van Gerwen had led 5-4 and looked in control of the opening-round contest, but he could not close it out. Gurney stayed alive, levelled the match and then took advantage when the deciding moments turned his way.
Van Gerwen exits early
The defeat was a major setback for van Gerwen, who was defending his World Series of Darts Finals title. It also continued a difficult 2026 season for the Dutchman, who will now leave the event far earlier than expected.
For Gurney, the win was another reminder of how much can change in a short format. He admitted it was hard work and said he could not remember the last time he won on a major stage. He also said he was fortunate to even force a 5-5 scoreline, adding that he had twice put his darts away while van Gerwen had six match darts.
Other first-round results
The first round also saw Luke Humphries beat Jermaine Wattimena 6-4, Gian van Veen defeat Chris Dobey 6-2 and Josh Rock edge Stephen Bunting 6-5.
After the opening round, Gurney was set to face Ross Smith in the second round, while Humphries was scheduled to meet Dirk van Duijvenbode.
Before the tournament match play began, Gurney and Maik Kuivenhoven were added from the reserve list after Alexis Toylo and Lourence Ilagan withdrew because of visa issues. On Friday, the first round was scheduled to conclude with Luke Littler, Gerwyn Price, Jonny Clayton, James Wade and Nathan Aspinall in action.
Van Gerwen's early exit changes the shape of the draw quickly. With the defending champion gone, the bracket opens up for the remaining players, and Gurney now has a chance to build on one of the biggest wins of the opening round.
