2026 Mr Vegas Grand Slam of Darts - Day One: Betting Tips

Luke Woodhouse vs Tom Sykes

Luke Woodhouse has maintained his upward trajectory from 2025 into 2026. The Englishman claimed his maiden PDC title after a fabulous European Tour victory at the Baltic Sea Darts Open in Kiel. He then followed that up a week later, adding a second PDC title at PC18 in Leicester.

Woody is knocking on the door of the top 16, and with a good run here, he will secure a place in the worlds elite.

Tom Sykes monumental rise into the sport continues, after a fantastic first year as a professional. The Yorkshireman has qualified for the last three majors of the season which shows what a solid first year he's had.

He is currently ranked 81 in the world, but with good runs to see out the year, he could push himself into the magic top 64 in the world.

I can see this being a tighter game than most expect. Woody is a big scorer himself, but when Sykes is in a rhythm, he can live with any player in the 180 department.

Stephen Bunting vs Raymond Smith

Raymond Smith comes into the Grand Slam in great form, after winning the the ANZ Premier League, demolishing Tim Pusey 10-2 in the final. That result see's him qualify for this event, aswell as the World Championship at Ally Pally.

Stephen Bunting hasn't had the best of seasons, failing to claim a PDC title so far this year. His performances on tv have also been below par, so he will need to be on his toes to avoid an upset here.

The Australian beat Bunting earlier in the year at the NZ Darts Masters, so he's clearly more than capable of pushing the world number nine.

Over 7.5 legs looks great value here, as I can see this being a tight contest, especially as Smith is full of confidence.

Josh Rock vs Tommy Morris

Josh Rock has a tough opening game on his hands here, against the inform Tommy Morris. The Englishman is a born entertainer, and after claiming his maiden PDC title at the last Players Championship event of the year, he will be full of confidence.

Rock hasn't had a bad year at all on the big stage, but he'll know Morris is in great form, so a potential upset looks likely over this short format.

Wessel Nijman vs Adam Sevada

Wessel Nijman has become a force to be reckoned with away from the TV cameras, winning eight tournaments so far this season. He's clearly the best player on the floor at the moment, but he'll be worried about his overall performances in majors.

The Dutchman will be determined to change his fortunes Infront of the camera's, and I can't see Adam Sevada causing him any problems.

James Wade vs Cameron Crabtree

James Wade will make his record-equalling 19th Grand Slam appearance this week in Wolverhampton. His longevity in the sport is incredible, and he's arguably playing some of the best darts of his career at the moment.

Cam Crabtree produced a 102 average during his debut win over Jonny Clayton last year. The World Youth finalist eventually finished third in his group but made a good account of himself.

This match is a different kettle of fish for the youngster though, as he takes on the ever consistent Wade. The Machine should have no problems brushing aside the youngster, and I expect him to show his experience during a dominant performance.

Ross Smith vs Rusty-Jake Rodriguez

Ross Smith looks set for his Premier League debut next year after winning two of the previous three Major's this season. Smith continues to impress, and the Englishman has now reached a career high of number 6 in the PDC rankings.

'Smudger' is clearly one of the favourites in this tournament, and should have no problem brushing aside a surprise qualifier in Rusty-Jake Rodriguez.

Luke Littler vs Beau Greaves

This is without doubt the tie of the opening session, with Luke Littler attempting to gain revenge against Greaves, after his defeat in last years World Youth Championship semi final.

Greaves has set the world of darts alight since gaining her tour card in January, consistently competing with the best players in the world on a weekly basis. She also became the first women to win a Players Championship ranking title, after storming to victory in PC11 in Milton Keynes.

'The Nuke' is yet to taste defeat at the Grand Slam, after winning back to back titles and going 14 matches unbeaten in Wolverhampton. The youngster will be looking to add another record to his resume, as he bids to become the third player to win three successive Grand Slams, joining Phil Taylor and Michael van Gerwen.

All eyes will be on this match, and you'd think Beau may succumb to the pressure, but so far in her career she has resisted that. Greaves has consistently produced fantastic performances in these types of situations, therefore I can see her doing that again this evening, and making this an extremely uncomfortable evening for the World Number One.

Gian van Veen vs Carl Sneyd

Gian van Veen is yet to win a tournament this season, but is still producing consistent performances in all competitions. The Dutch number one has failed to get out of his group twice in his previous three appearances, but he's been handed a kind draw in group M, so should progress fairly comfortably.

Carl Sneyd will be making his debut at the Grand Slam after coming through the qualifiers last week. He's found the transition to life on the Pro Tour difficult, but qualifying for a major will be a welcome boost to his confidence.

I was surprised to see the value for Gian van Veen hitting the most 180s, as he's consistently been one of the heaviest scorers in the game.

Sneyd on debut will no doubt be nervous so I can see the Dutchman outclassing him here, and hitting a few maximums enroute.