Ross Smith Battles Kevin Doets in Betfred World Matchplay Opening Round

Ross Smith opened his Betfred World Matchplay campaign on 20 July 2026 with a first-round clash against Kevin Doets, a match that promised early drama in Blackpool’s marquee event.

What happened?

The encounter unfolded during the Monday evening session at the Winter Gardens. Smith, seeded among the top 16, took the stage at 19:00 UK time and quickly settled into a rhythm. Doets, a rising ProTour talent, answered with steady scoring, forcing Smith into a series of high-pressure finishes. The match stretched to a deciding leg, with Smith ultimately prevailing 10-9 after a decisive 121 checkout on the final throw.

How did the result affect the draw?

Smith’s narrow win secured his place in the second round, where the draw pits him against the victor of the Luke Humphries vs Cameron Menzies tie. That pairing, scheduled for 22 July, could pit Smith against a former world finalist, raising the stakes for his next outing. Meanwhile, Doets exits the tournament, but his performance earns him valuable ranking points and a reputation for challenging top-tier opponents.

Why does this matter for Ross Smith’s season?

A first-round victory at the World Matchplay is a key indicator of form heading into the summer circuit. The £1 million prize pool means each win not only boosts earnings but also contributes to the PDC Order of Merit, influencing seedings for upcoming majors. Smith’s ability to edge out a close match suggests mental resilience, a trait essential for navigating the later knockout stages where margins tighten.

What’s next for Smith?

Looking ahead, Smith will face the winner of the Humphries-Menzies match on 22 July. If he continues his current level, a quarter-final berth could be within reach, echoing his strong showing last year when he reached the last-16. Fans will be watching his checkout percentages and average scores closely, as any dip could be exploited by seasoned rivals like Michael van Gerwen or Gary Anderson later in the tournament.

How does this fit into the broader Matchplay narrative?

The 2026 edition features a refreshed £225,000 winner’s purse, underscoring the event’s growing prestige. Smith’s early win adds another story to a field that includes defending champion Luke Littler and former world champion Michael van Gerwen. Each match contributes to the evolving storyline of who might break the dominance of past champions and claim the coveted Phil Taylor Trophy.

The World Matchplay continues to deliver high-octane darts, and Ross Smith’s performance on 20 July sets the tone for what could be a breakthrough campaign.