The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City hosted the thrilling conclusion of the U.S. Darts Masters, bringing together the world’s best players for a high-stakes competition. The event, part of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) World Series of Darts, showcased some of the most exciting and competitive matches in the sport’s history, and it drew large crowds eager to witness the high-flying action in one of the world’s most iconic venues.
A Landmark Event for Darts in the U.S.
The U.S. Darts Masters has become a prominent fixture in the PDC World Series of Darts, attracting both elite international players and American darts enthusiasts. This year’s event featured a total of 16 competitors, including some of the top-ranked PDC players such as Michael van Gerwen, Rob Cross, and Gary Anderson. In addition to the international stars, the tournament featured American players, providing them with a rare opportunity to compete on the world stage and showcase the growing interest in darts within the United States.
The event’s popularity reflects the growing appeal of darts in the U.S., where it is becoming increasingly popular among fans who are drawn to the skill, strategy, and excitement of the sport. With a packed arena and an energetic crowd, the U.S. Darts Masters 2025 proved that darts has found a home in the hearts of American sports fans.
Tournament Highlights: Surprises and Stunning Performances
The U.S. Darts Masters 2025 was filled with surprises, dramatic moments, and brilliant performances. One of the biggest stories of the tournament was the early elimination of defending champion Rob Cross, who was unexpectedly knocked out in the first round by Danny Lauby, a relatively unknown American player. Lauby’s 6-0 victory was a huge upset and marked his first-ever win at the U.S. Darts Masters. His performance electrified the crowd and made him an instant fan favorite.
Another standout moment was Michael van Gerwen’s electrifying semifinal performance, where he showcased his characteristic dominance with powerful throws and high-scoring checkouts. However, van Gerwen’s run was cut short by Luke Littler, a young player who made an impressive run to the final. Littler’s victory over van Gerwen in the semifinals, including a dramatic 170 checkout, stunned the audience and propelled him into the final match.
The final match between Littler and Gary Anderson was an edge-of-the-seat affair, with both players exchanging explosive 180s and intense checkouts. Anderson, known for his cool demeanor and consistency, gave Littler a tough fight, but Littler’s aggressive style and precision in the final legs ultimately secured his victory. Littler won 8-6, marking his first-ever U.S. Darts Masters title and signaling his rise in the world of professional darts.
North American Championship: Rising Stars in Darts
In addition to the main tournament, the North American Championship was held as part of the U.S. Darts Masters, showcasing the top darts talent from the U.S. and Canada. The North American Championship provided a platform for up-and-coming players to compete for a spot in future international darts events, including the PDC World Darts Championship.
The final of the North American Championship featured Canadian darts star John Part, a former World Champion, against American player Darin Young. Part, despite his experience and success on the world stage, was outplayed by Young, who took home the championship title and secured his place in future PDC events. Young’s victory represents the growing strength of North American darts and highlights the importance of events like the U.S. Darts Masters in nurturing homegrown talent.
The Future of Darts in North America
As the U.S. Darts Masters continues to gain popularity, the sport is expected to grow even more in North America. The PDC’s commitment to expanding its reach in the U.S. has already led to the creation of more events, such as the North American Championship and other regional tournaments. With the increasing interest in darts across the country, it’s clear that the sport has a bright future in North America.
Looking forward, organizers plan to make the U.S. Darts Masters even bigger and more inclusive, with a focus on bringing in more top-tier players from around the world and fostering a stronger presence for American players. The growth of the sport is also being supported by grassroots initiatives, such as darts clinics and youth programs, which aim to cultivate new talent and inspire future generations of darts champions.