What Is 2017 PDC Players Championship 2

Overview

The 2017 PDC Players Championship 2 was the second of 20 events in the PDC Players Championship series that year, part of the Professional Darts Corporation's ProTour. Held on February 4, 2017, it attracted 139 of the world’s top darts players competing for a £100,000 prize fund.

Organized by the PDC, the tournament followed a single-elimination format with matches played in a best-of-11 legs format until the later stages. The event was significant for maintaining competitive balance and ranking points throughout the season.

• 139 players entered the tournament, making it one of the largest ProTour events of the year, with both top-ranked and emerging darts professionals participating.
• The total prize fund was £100,000, with the winner receiving £15,000, a substantial sum for a one-day ProTour event.
• Dave Chisnall claimed victory by defeating Michael Smith 6–5 in a tense final, marking his first Players Championship win of 2017.
• The event was held at the Barnsley Metrodome in Yorkshire, a regular venue for PDC ProTour events due to its central location and large seating capacity.
• Matches were played in a best-of-11 legs format in early rounds, increasing to best-of-19 legs in the final to test endurance and consistency.

How It Works

The PDC Players Championship series consists of non-televised ProTour events that allow players to earn ranking money and qualify for televised tournaments. These events are crucial for maintaining world rankings and securing spots in major championships.

• Format: The tournament used a knockout structure. Each match was played in legs, with players needing to win a set number to progress through rounds.
• Entry: All PDC Tour Card holders were eligible, and the field was filled via ranking order, with 139 players competing in a single-day event.
• Scoring: Each leg required a player to reach 501 points exactly, starting with a double out, with the best player over multiple legs advancing.
• Prize Money: The winner earned £15,000, while even first-round losers received £500, incentivizing strong performances across all levels.
• Ranking Points: Results contributed to the PDC Order of Merit, influencing qualification for events like the World Matchplay and World Grand Prix.
• Venue Rotation: The PDC rotates venues across the UK and Europe; Barnsley was a frequent host due to its reliable facilities and fan accessibility.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2017 PDC Players Championship 2 with similar events in the ProTour series:

This table highlights how Players Championship events maintain consistent prize structures and formats, though the final match of PC2 used a longer format. The consistency helps players prepare and ensures competitive fairness across the ProTour season.

Why It Matters

The 2017 PDC Players Championship 2 was more than just another tournament—it had lasting implications for player rankings, form, and future qualification. Its outcome influenced the competitive landscape of darts throughout the year.

• Dave Chisnall’s win boosted his confidence and ranking, helping him qualify for major televised events later in the season.
• The close 6–5 final demonstrated high-pressure performance, showcasing the mental toughness required at the elite level.
• Consistent prize funds across events like this ensure that even non-televised tournaments remain financially viable for professional players.
• Michael Smith’s runner-up finish kept him in strong contention for World Matchplay qualification based on ranking points.
• Events like PC2 allow lesser-known players to earn money and gain experience against top-tier competition in a live setting.
• The tournament also reinforced the PDC’s strategy of spreading events across the UK to grow grassroots darts fan engagement.

Overall, the 2017 PDC Players Championship 2 was a pivotal moment in the darts calendar, combining high stakes, intense competition, and long-term implications for player development and rankings.