Luke Littler faces a new challenge as his path to his next title will be significantly different, as the Professional Darts Corporation have announced a significant alteration to how players receive seeded positions at European Tour competitions.
Rather than using the Main Order of Merit to determine seedings, the governing body will now base rankings on the Pro Tour Order of Merit.
This modification is designed to benefit competitors who regularly participate in floor events throughout the season.
Under the revised system, the leading 16 qualifiers from the Pro Tour standings will receive seeded status at European tournaments.
The change means that current form and consistent weekly participation will carry greater weight than overall world rankings when determining favourable draws.
Previously, seeded positions at European events were allocated according to the Main Order of Merit, which effectively shielded higher-ranked competitors from difficult opening-round opponents.
This arrangement proved problematic for players who delivered strong performances week after week on the floor circuit but held lower positions in the world rankings.
Despite their consistent results, these competitors often faced formidable opposition from the first round onward.
Luke Littler faces a new challenge as his path to his next title will be significantly different
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This led to premature eliminations.
The system essentially penalised those who committed to regular Pro Tour participation whilst offering protection to more established names who might compete less frequently in these events.
The financial realities of competing on the circuit prompted vocal criticism from several professionals last year.
William O’Connor expressed his concerns to Off the Ball, he said: “If I go over to a tournament this week and it costs me whatever to go and if I don’t win any games, I’m down money.”
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The Irish player highlighted the broader struggle facing those outside the elite tier: “It’s almost impossible to live off darts, unless you’re really good at it.”
Ryan Searle, currently ranked eighth globally, also voiced his displeasure despite his strong form. In January 2025, he questioned on social media: “What is the point of the ProTour Order of Merit? The one that shows the true form and consistency of players.”
The restructured European Tour will feature 32 competitors at each event. The top 16 from the Pro Tour Order of Merit receive seeded status, with Tour Card Holders filling positions 17 to 26.
Host nation qualifiers occupy spots 27 to 30, whilst the PDCNB and Eastern Europe qualifiers complete the field.
Luke Littler had a very impressive 2025
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The Poland Darts Masters, scheduled to commence on February 20 at EXPO Krakow, will be the inaugural event operating under these revised regulations.
The tournament offers £35,000 to the winner, with world champion Luke Littler already confirmed as a qualifier.
Gerwyn Price claimed last year’s title following an 8-7 victory over Stephen Bunting in the final.
