| 1 | Peter Wright vs Gerwyn Price | 2020 World Matchplay Quarter-Final | 2 hours, 7 minutes |
| 2 | Phil Taylor vs Adrian Lewis | 2013 World Matchplay Final | 2 hours, 5 minutes |
| 3 | Adrian Lewis vs Dave Chisnall | 2014 World Grand Prix Semi-Final | 2 hours, 3 minutes |
| 4 | Gerwyn Price vs José de Sousa | 2022 World Matchplay Last 16 | 2 hours, 3 minutes |
| 5 | Raymond van Barneveld vs Phil Taylor | 2007 PDC World Championship Final | 2 hours, 28 minutes |
| 6 | Phil Taylor vs James Wade | 2006 World Matchplay Final | 2 hours, 25 minutes |
| 7 | Gary Anderson vs Mensur Suljovic | 2018 World Matchplay Semi-Final | 2 hours, 20 minutes |
| 8 | James Wade vs Mervyn King | 2009 Premier League Darts Semi-Final | 2 hours, 15 minutes |
| 9 | James Wade vs Mervyn King | 2010 Premier League Darts Semi-Final | 2 hours, 12 minutes |
| 10 | Gary Anderson vs Chris Dobey | 2018 PDC World Championship | 2 hours, 10 minutes |
| 11 | Mensur Suljovic vs Ian White | 2016 World Matchplay Last 16 | 2 hours, 1 minute |
| 12 | Peter Wright vs Dave Chisnall | 2019 World Matchplay Semi-Final | 1 hour, 59 minutes |
| 13 | Michael van Gerwen vs Rob Cross | 2020 Grand Slam of Darts | 1 hour, 58 minutes |
| 14 | Andy Hamilton vs Simon Whitlock | 2013 World Matchplay Quarter-Final | 1 hour, 55 minutes |
| 15 | Steve Beaton vs Vincent van der Voort | 2015 European Championship Last 32 | 1 hour, 52 minutes |
| 16 | Rob Cross vs Michael Smith | 2020 PDC World Championship Semi-Final | 1 hour, 50 minutes |
| 17 | Glen Durrant vs Michael Smith | 2020 Premier League Darts Match | 1 hour, 48 minutes |
| 18 | Joe Cullen vs Michael Smith | 2018 World Matchplay Quarter-Final | 1 hour, 47 minutes |
| 19 | Simon Whitlock vs Jelle Klaasen | 2014 European Championship Last 16 | 1 hour, 45 minutes |
| 20 | Michael Smith vs Nathan Aspinall | 2019 PDC World Championship Quarter-Final | 1 hour, 42 minutes |
1. Raymond van Barneveld vs Phil Taylor – 2007 PDC World Championship Final (2:28)
The 2007 PDC World Championship Final stands as one of the most iconic moments in darts history. Inside the atmospheric Alexandra Palace, two legends of the game, Raymond van Barneveld and Phil Taylor, engaged in an epic battle that would span nearly two and a half hours. Van Barneveld, known for his composed yet powerful play, faced Taylor, the reigning titan of darts with countless titles to his name. The match began with Taylor asserting his dominance, showcasing his pinpoint accuracy and unmatched consistency. His scoring was relentless, and his finishes clinical, racing to an early lead.
But Van Barneveld, with a steely determination and the weight of a nation behind him, refused to yield. Slowly but surely, he began clawing back leg after leg, raising his average and landing stunning checkouts under immense pressure. The crowd, initially subdued by Taylor’s dominance, erupted with every Barneveld double as the momentum shifted. By the time the match reached its dramatic conclusion, the tension was palpable, with both players exchanging high scores and calculated finishes. In the final leg decider, it was Van Barneveld who held his nerve, clinching his first PDC World Championship title and cementing his legacy in a match that fans still regard as one of the greatest ever played.
2. Phil Taylor vs James Wade – 2006 World Matchplay Final (2:25)
This 2006 World Matchplay Final was a display of darting endurance and mental fortitude. Held in the intimate setting of the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, Phil Taylor and James Wade battled in a match that would stretch over two hours and 25 minutes. Taylor, already a dominant force in the sport, faced Wade, who was beginning to establish himself as one of the most consistent players on the circuit.
The match was characterized by an extraordinary level of pressure, with both players landing massive trebles and checkouts to keep the contest finely poised. Wade, known for his unshakeable temperament, matched Taylor blow for blow, forcing the legend into uncomfortable positions. Taylor, however, drew upon his years of experience, delivering timely 180s and nerveless finishes to edge ahead. As the match progressed into its later stages, the intensity only grew, with the crowd hanging onto every throw. In the end, Taylor’s experience and ruthless precision proved the difference as he secured a hard-fought victory, but Wade’s resilience left fans applauding both players.
3. Gary Anderson vs Mensur Suljovic – 2018 World Matchplay Semi-Final (2:20)
The 2018 World Matchplay Semi-Final was a dramatic clash of styles between Gary Anderson, the power scorer, and Mensur Suljovic, the methodical tactician. From the very first dart, it was clear that this was going to be a tightly contested affair. Suljovic’s deliberate pace and calculated finishes contrasted sharply with Anderson’s rapid-fire scoring and aggressive approach.
The match unfolded like a game of chess, with both players probing for weaknesses. Suljovic’s uncanny ability to land bullseyes and double-14s kept him in contention throughout, frustrating Anderson and forcing him to raise his game. The atmosphere in the Winter Gardens was electric, with fans cheering every high checkout and gasping at every near miss. As the match approached the two-hour mark, Anderson found another gear, delivering critical treble-20s and a flawless 130 checkout that shifted the momentum in his favor. Suljovic’s composure began to waver under the relentless scoring pressure, and Anderson eventually edged out the win, leaving fans exhausted but exhilarated.
5. James Wade vs Mervyn King – 2010 Premier League Darts Semi-Final (2:12)
The following year, Wade and King faced each other again in the Premier League Darts Semi-Final, and the match was just as grueling as their previous encounter. This time, the stakes felt even higher, with both players determined to assert their dominance. The match ebbed and flowed, with King taking an early lead through relentless scoring and a magnificent 161 checkout.
Wade, however, was unshaken. His consistency on the doubles, combined with his ability to grind out legs, kept him in contention. As the match reached its later stages, both players were visibly drained, but the quality never dipped. The final legs were nail-biting, with Wade landing back-to-back 140s to set up a double-top finish that sealed the win. The crowd’s roar reflected the epic nature of the match, another classic in their growing rivalry.
6. Gary Anderson vs Chris Dobey – 2018 PDC World Championship (2:10)
The 2018 PDC World Championship clash between Gary Anderson and Chris Dobey was a showcase of raw talent and veteran experience. Anderson, a two-time world champion, was the favorite, but Dobey, a rising star, was determined to leave his mark. The match began with Anderson firing off blistering scores, his treble-20 hitting precision unnerving Dobey.
Dobey, however, showed remarkable composure for someone relatively new to the big stage. He held his nerve in crucial legs, delivering clutch checkouts that had the crowd roaring in approval. As the match extended beyond the two-hour mark, both players were visibly fatigued but refused to yield an inch. Anderson’s finishing prowess under immense pressure ultimately tipped the scales, but Dobey’s resilience and determination earned him the respect of fans and pundits alike.
7. Peter Wright vs Gerwyn Price – 2020 World Matchplay Quarter-Final (2:07)
The 2020 World Matchplay Quarter-Final between Peter Wright and Gerwyn Price was a masterclass in tenacity and skill. Price, known for his fiery temperament and bullish style, took the early initiative, unsettling Wright with his aggressive scoring. However, Wright’s calm demeanor and colorful persona helped him regain his footing.
The match became a tug-of-war, with each player landing stunning checkouts and piling on the pressure. The tension was palpable as the crowd roared with every dart. Wright’s ability to slow the game’s tempo and deliver under pressure proved decisive, with his precision on the doubles edging out Price in a grueling contest that left fans breathless.
8. Phil Taylor vs Adrian Lewis – 2013 World Matchplay Final (2:05)
Phil Taylor and Adrian Lewis’s 2013 World Matchplay Final was a battle of two generations. Taylor, the seasoned master, faced Lewis, the prodigious talent known for his explosive scoring. The match began with Taylor asserting control, his experience allowing him to dictate the tempo.
Lewis, however, refused to be intimidated. He unleashed a barrage of 180s and high finishes, keeping Taylor on his toes. The game became a showcase of darting brilliance, with both players delivering moments of pure magic. As the match approached its conclusion, Taylor’s legendary consistency under pressure gave him the edge, securing another major title in his glittering career.
9. Adrian Lewis vs Dave Chisnall – 2014 World Grand Prix Semi-Final (2:03)
In the 2014 World Grand Prix Semi-Final, Adrian Lewis faced Dave Chisnall in a pulsating encounter. The unique double-in, double-out format added an extra layer of complexity, testing the players’ precision and focus. Chisnall’s scoring power kept him competitive, landing timely 180s that drew gasps from the crowd.
Lewis, however, was relentless, combining heavy scoring with clinical finishes. The match saw dramatic swings in momentum, with both players producing moments of brilliance. In the end, Lewis’s experience in high-pressure situations allowed him to secure the win in a match that left the crowd buzzing.
10. Gerwyn Price vs José de Sousa – 2022 World Matchplay Last 16 (2:03)
The Last 16 clash between Gerwyn Price and José de Sousa at the 2022 World Matchplay was a thrilling display of modern darts. Price’s intensity and power scoring met its match in De Sousa’s methodical approach and incredible finishing.
The match saw both players trading blows, with De Sousa landing several high checkouts that silenced the crowd. Price, however, leaned into his fiery persona, using the energy of the crowd to fuel his performance. The tension built with every leg, culminating in a nail-biting finish where Price’s ability to hit doubles under pressure saw him prevail in a match lasting over two hours.
11. Mensur Suljovic vs Ian White – 2016 World Matchplay Last 16 (2:01)
Mensur Suljovic’s clash with Ian White in the 2016 World Matchplay Last 16 was a test of patience and precision. Suljovic, known for his slow and steady style, used his rhythm to disrupt White’s flow.
The match unfolded as a game of small margins, with both players landing crucial trebles and navigating tricky finishes. Suljovic’s unflappable demeanor and mastery of double-14 eventually wore down White, earning him a hard-fought victory in a match that just crept over the two-hour mark.
12. Peter Wright vs Dave Chisnall – 2019 World Matchplay Semi-Final (1:59)
The 2019 World Matchplay Semi-Final between Peter Wright and Dave Chisnall was a high-octane contest. Chisnall’s powerful scoring allowed him to dominate the early exchanges, but Wright’s calculated approach kept him in the game.
The match was characterized by dramatic momentum shifts, with both players landing critical checkouts at key moments. As the game neared the two-hour mark, Wright’s composure under pressure and precision on the doubles proved decisive, securing him a place in the final.
13. Michael van Gerwen vs Rob Cross – 2020 Grand Slam of Darts (1:58)
Michael van Gerwen and Rob Cross’s 2020 Grand Slam of Darts clash was a meeting of two heavyweights. Van Gerwen’s relentless scoring was matched by Cross’s calculated finishing, creating a match filled with drama and tension.
The contest saw numerous lead changes, with both players producing moments of brilliance. Van Gerwen’s aggressive style and ability to find treble-20s at will ultimately gave him the edge, but not before Cross had pushed him to the limit in a gripping encounter.
14. Andy Hamilton vs Simon Whitlock – 2013 World Matchplay Quarter-Final (1:55)
In the 2013 World Matchplay Quarter-Final, Andy Hamilton and Simon Whitlock delivered a classic encounter. Whitlock’s smooth throwing action and calm demeanor contrasted with Hamilton’s fiery determination.
The match was a battle of wills, with both players refusing to back down. Whitlock’s high checkouts kept him in contention, but Hamilton’s relentless scoring and never-say-die attitude saw him prevail in a contest that epitomized darting drama.
15. Steve Beaton vs Vincent van der Voort – 2015 European Championship Last 32 (1:52)
The 2015 European Championship Last 32 match between Steve Beaton and Vincent van der Voort was a clash of styles. Beaton’s effortless technique faced off against Van der Voort’s fast-paced aggression.
The match saw both players trading legs, with Beaton’s consistency on the doubles proving critical. In the end, his calm under pressure allowed him to edge out Van der Voort in a match that showcased the depth of talent in the sport.
16. Rob Cross vs Michael Smith – 2020 PDC World Championship Semi-Final (1:50)
The 2020 PDC World Championship Semi-Final between Rob Cross and Michael Smith was a dramatic and emotionally charged encounter. Both players were at their peak, with Cross’s calculated precision contrasting against Smith’s explosive scoring power.
The match began with Cross taking an early lead, using his steady scoring and clinical finishing to put pressure on Smith. However, Smith roared back into contention, unleashing a barrage of 180s that electrified the crowd. The two players traded legs with remarkable consistency, the tension growing with every throw.
As the game progressed into its later stages, Smith faltered on key doubles, giving Cross the slight edge he needed. Cross maintained his composure and seized the opportunity, checking out under immense pressure to claim a place in the final. The match was a perfect blend of power, precision, and psychological resilience, lasting just under two hours and leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
17. Glen Durrant vs Michael Smith – 2020 Premier League Darts Match (1:48)
Glen Durrant’s clash with Michael Smith in the 2020 Premier League Darts was a showcase of contrasting styles and gripping drama. Durrant, known for his unshakable focus and methodical play, faced the fast-paced and dynamic Smith.
Smith stormed out of the gates, hitting trebles with ease and racking up high-scoring visits. But Durrant, ever the tactician, slowly worked his way back into the match. Each leg was fiercely contested, with both players producing stunning finishes and key 180s at crucial moments.
As the match extended beyond an hour and forty minutes, the tension in the arena was palpable. Durrant’s calm under pressure and flawless execution on doubles in the final legs secured him a hard-fought victory, proving once again why he was one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers.
18. Joe Cullen vs Michael Smith – 2018 World Matchplay Quarter-Final (1:47)
The 2018 World Matchplay Quarter-Final between Joe Cullen and Michael Smith was a gripping encounter that showcased both players’ determination and raw talent. Smith’s trademark power scoring set the tone early, but Cullen was up to the challenge, responding with sharp finishing and tactical precision.
The match was a back-and-forth affair, with neither player able to build a commanding lead. Cullen’s composure under pressure became the defining factor, as he landed crucial checkouts to keep Smith at bay. Despite Smith’s ability to pile on the pressure with his scoring, he missed key doubles in the final stages, allowing Cullen to edge him out in a thrilling contest.
The game, lasting nearly two hours, was a testament to Cullen’s mental strength and Smith’s relentless aggression, leaving fans captivated by their intense rivalry.
19. Simon Whitlock vs Jelle Klaasen – 2014 European Championship Last 16 (1:45)
Simon Whitlock and Jelle Klaasen delivered a thrilling encounter in the 2014 European Championship Last 16. Whitlock, with his measured style and precision finishing, faced the fast and aggressive Klaasen, making for a fascinating contrast in styles.
Klaasen started strong, using his quick rhythm to pile on the pressure, but Whitlock’s experience and ability to hit high checkouts kept him in the match. The players traded legs in a tense battle, with the momentum swinging back and forth.
As the game entered its final stages, Whitlock’s steady hand on the doubles proved decisive. He landed a critical checkout in the penultimate leg, breaking Klaasen’s throw and clinching victory in a nail-biting finish. The match was an hour and forty-five minutes of pure darting drama, showcasing the resilience and skill of both competitors.
20. Michael Smith vs Nathan Aspinall – 2019 PDC World Championship Quarter-Final (1:42)
The final match on the list, Michael Smith vs Nathan Aspinall in the 2019 PDC World Championship Quarter-Final, was a spectacle of relentless scoring and fierce competition. Aspinall, the underdog, came out with nothing to lose, matching Smith dart for dart in the early stages.
Smith, however, began to showcase his trademark power scoring, hitting multiple 180s and building pressure with his relentless scoring rhythm. Aspinall responded with some incredible finishes, keeping the match alive and thrilling the Alexandra Palace crowd.
As the match wore on, Smith’s precision under pressure became the deciding factor. He landed crucial doubles in the final legs, overcoming Aspinall’s spirited challenge to secure a place in the semi-finals. The one-hour and forty-two-minute clash was a fitting end to a list of epic darting encounters, leaving fans in awe of both players’ skill and determination.
