5 underdogs with upside at the 2026 World Series of Darts Finals

A variety of players from different talent levels and countries will be in the Netherlands this weekend for the 2026 World Series of Darts Finals.

Many of the seeded players will come in as favorites, but there are a handful of non-seeded players who could make a run to action on Sunday afternoon and evening.

5 underdogs with upside at the 2026 World Series of Darts Finals

Let’s take a look at some of the underdogs to keep an eye on this weekend, given their draws and recent form.

MORE: 2026 World Series of Darts Finals: First round predictions and previews

Ross Smith and Kevin Doets

Smith and Doets face off in the first round, and I have a feeling that if they start on the right foot, the winner has a chance at a campaign lasting to the quarterfinals or later.

Michael van Gerwen, the #1 seed in the event and the reigning champion, will likely be in their way in the second round, but many could argue Smith and Doets have been more consistent recently, so they have good odds in that potential matchup.

MORE: 2026 World Series of Darts Finals qualifiers

Brody Klinge

Klinge had a magical run at the 2026 Australian Darts Masters, showcasing that he might be ready to get a tour card in 2027.

We’ve only seen a small sample size of him in on-stage action against PDC stars, but it was enough to show that his ceiling is legit.

A draw against Gerwyn Price in the first round could make advancing difficult, but if he gets through to the second round, it’s not unrealistic for him to make it to at least the quarterfinal, as he’d play either Jim Long or Adam Leek in the second round.

MORE: 2026 World Series of Darts Finals: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explained

Wessel Nijman

Nijman may no longer be considered a true underdog, given his Pro Tour success this year, but he still has something to prove at a major.

For that reason, I view him as an underdog who has a chance to perform in front of his fans and make a deep run while he’s in his home country.

MORE: Explaining the significance of the World Series of Darts

Callan Rydz

Rydz might be a surprising addition on this list for some readers, but when you look at his section of the bracket, there’s a solid chance he makes it to the quarterfinals.

He plays Japan’s Motomu Sakai in the first round and would likely play Jonny Clayton in the second round.

He’s just a player you feel could do anything he wants on any given day he’s in the right mental and physical state on the oche.

5 underdogs with upside at the 2026 World Series of Darts Finals