Returnee Max Hopp is optimistic about the 2026 Darts World Cup.
The 2015 Junior World Champion will face Englishman Martin Lukeman in the first round.
“He is currently number 38 in the world, but we both have a lot of experience on stage,” said Hopp on “Sport1” about his opener at the 2026 Darts World Cup (from December 11th): “Of course he was in a major final before, but I was also in a major semi-final back then (in 2018, editor’s note) in Dortmund.”
Lukeman surprisingly made it to the final at the Grand Slam of Darts 2024. The 40-year-old clearly lost 3:16 against Luke Littler.
“He’s still a few places ahead of me in the world rankings, but I’m confident of a win. The draw is better than some of the other opponents I could have had,” said Hopp, looking ahead to the first round in the “Ally Pally”.
German record at the Darts World Cup 2026
The Darts World Cup is taking place for the first time with 128 starters. Eight German participants are also a record.
“There’s something going on for the Germans! We got all the lots that can be solved,” said Hopp. The Darts World Cup has “never been so balanced,” said the “Maximiser”.
Max Hopp will be at the Darts World Cup for the first time since 2021
Hopp has qualified for the most important tournament of the season for the first time since 2021. The 29-year-old had meanwhile lost his tour card with the professional association PDC. The Hesse native is now back and is currently in 93rd position in the world rankings.
“I’m looking forward to Martin Lukeman, but above all to returning to the Ally Pally. I’m full of energy,” assured Hopp.
A total of five million pounds will be paid out at the Darts World Cup in 2026, and for the first time there will be one million pounds (around 1.13 million euros) for the title. The 18-year-old high-flyer Luke Littler travels to London as the top favorite.