MASTERS 2024 DRAW: CHRIS DOBEY, THE REIGNING CHAMPION, AND MICHAEL VAN GERWEN MAY HAVE A SHOWDOWN

The biggest darting stars won’t be gone for long when they return to action at the Masters. In his opening match, defending champion Chris Dobey will take against the reigning UK Open champion Andrew Gilding. Michael van Gerwen waits if he prevails.

The world’s top 24 players will compete in the competition, which takes place in Milton Keynes from February 2–4. Direct entry into the second round of the Masters is granted to the top eight players ranked according to seedings. Luke Humphries, the recent world champion, starts against Stephen Bunting or Ross Smith.

Peter Wright, the winner of the previous Masters champion match between Jonny Clayton and Krzysztof Ratajski, will play. Gerwyn Price will start against either Josh Rock or Joe Cullen, while Nathan Aspinall will face either Dirk van Duijvenbode or Ryan Seale.

The first round match between Dave Chisnall and Martin Schindler will be watched closely by world number seven Danny Noppert. Former world champion Michael Smith will be trying to recover from his Ally Pally setback, but he faces a difficult opening matchup against Dimitri van den Bergh or James Wade, while Rob Cross’s opponent could be either Damon Heta or Gabriel Clemens.