Van Gerwen upset by Gurney at World Series of Darts Finals

Defending champion Michael van Gerwen suffered a stunning first-round exit at the World Series of Darts Finals on Thursday, September 17, 2026, losing 6-5 to late replacement Daryl Gurney in Amsterdam. The upset occurred at AFAS Live, where Gurney, a Northern Irishman, came from 5-3 down to defeat the Dutch top seed and three-time world champion. Gurney, who was not originally in the tournament field, secured a spot after Philippine players Alexis Toylo and Lourence Ilagan withdrew due to visa issues. He capitalized on the opportunity, racing to a 3-0 lead before Van Gerwen won five consecutive legs to move within one leg of victory. However, Gurney broke back to force a deciding leg after Van Gerwen missed multiple match darts at 5-4 up. Gurney then held his throw to seal the win on double 16. The Professional Darts Corporation labeled the result the "shock of the night." Gurney, nicknamed Superchin, expressed relief and surprise after the match. "It was really hard work. I can't remember the last time I won on a major stage," he said. "I put my darts away twice because Michael had darts to win.