What Is 1998 PDC World Darts Championship

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: The 1998 PDC World Darts Championship was won by Phil Taylor, who defeated Peter Manley 6–0 in sets at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, England, from December 27, 1997, to January 3, 1998. It marked Taylor's third consecutive PDC world title.

Key Facts

Phil Taylor won the 1998 PDC World Darts Championship with a 6–0 victory in sets over Peter Manley
The final took place on January 3, 1998, at the Circus Tavern in Purfleet, England
Taylor became the first player to win three consecutive PDC World Championships
The tournament ran from December 27, 1997, to January 3, 1998, spanning eight days
Taylor averaged 97.6 in the final, one of the highest in championship history

Overview

The 1998 PDC World Darts Championship was the fifth edition of the Professional Darts Corporation's premier event, cementing its place as a major fixture in the darts calendar. Held at the iconic Circus Tavern in Purfleet, England, the tournament attracted top players from around the world competing for the £42,000 prize fund, with £24,000 awarded to the winner.

This year's championship was notable for Phil Taylor's dominant performance, culminating in a historic whitewash victory in the final. The event spanned from December 27, 1997, to January 3, 1998, maintaining the PDC's tradition of hosting the final in the early days of the new year.

Phil Taylor claimed his third consecutive PDC world title, becoming the first player to achieve this feat in the organization's history.
The final match saw Taylor defeat Peter Manley in a 6–0 sets victory, the most one-sided final in PDC World Championship history.
Taylor's average of 97.6 in the final was among the highest recorded in a world championship final at the time.
The tournament featured a 32-player field, with participants qualifying through rankings, regional representation, and invitation.
Matches were played in a sets format, with each set won by the first to three legs, and the final played as best-of-11 sets.

How It Works

The PDC World Darts Championship follows a structured knockout format with standardized rules for scoring, timing, and conduct. Each stage of the tournament is designed to test consistency, precision, and mental resilience under pressure.

Format: The tournament used a knockout bracket with best-of-5 sets in early rounds, progressing to best-of-9, best-of-11, and best-of-13 in later stages. The final was best-of-11 sets.
Scoring: Each leg is played to 501 points, with players required to double out. A standard turn consists of three darts, and the first to win the required number of legs wins the set.
Playing Area: The oche is set at 7 feet 9.25 inches from the face of the board, with a steel-tip dartboard featuring standard segmented scoring zones.
Time Limits: While there was no strict shot clock in 1998, players were expected to maintain a reasonable pace; excessive delays could result in warnings from officials.
Prize Money: The total prize fund was £42,000, with the champion receiving £24,000, runner-up £12,000, and decreasing amounts for earlier rounds.
Officials: Matches were overseen by a referee and two scorekeepers, ensuring accurate scoring and adherence to PDC regulations throughout the tournament.

Comparison at a Glance

The 1998 PDC World Championship can be better understood through a comparison with previous editions in terms of format, participants, and outcomes.

Year	Champion	Runner-Up	Final Score (Sets)	Winner's Average	Prize (Winner)
1994	Phil Taylor	Eric Bristow	6–1	92.1	£20,000
1995	Phil Taylor	Dennis Priestley	6–2	94.3	£20,000
1996	Phil Taylor	Peter Manley	6–3	95.8	£20,000
1997	Phil Taylor	John Part	6–3	96.1	£24,000
1998	Phil Taylor	Peter Manley	6–0	97.6	£24,000

The table illustrates Taylor's growing dominance, with his averages increasing each year and the 1998 final marking the most decisive victory in PDC World Championship history. The prize money remained consistent from 1997, reflecting the PDC's growing commercial stability during this period.

Why It Matters

The 1998 PDC World Darts Championship was a pivotal moment in professional darts, showcasing the rising professionalism and competitive standards of the sport. It solidified Phil Taylor's legacy as the dominant force in darts during the 1990s and helped elevate the PDC's profile globally.

Historic Performance: Taylor's 6–0 win remains the most one-sided final in PDC history, underscoring his unmatched dominance at the time.
Legacy Building: Winning three consecutive titles established Taylor as the first true dynasty player in modern darts.
Global Exposure: The tournament was broadcast internationally, increasing the PDC's visibility beyond the UK.
Player Development: The event inspired a new generation of players, including future champions like Raymond van Barneveld and Michael van Gerwen.
Commercial Growth: Rising prize money and sponsorship interest signaled the PDC's increasing financial health.
Sport Legitimization: The high level of play and media coverage helped establish darts as a serious professional sport.

The 1998 championship not only defined an era but also set a benchmark for excellence and competitiveness in professional darts, influencing tournament structure and player expectations for years to come.