Josh Rock continued his impressive run in 2024, securing his third ranking title of the year with a thrilling victory over Jonny Clayton at Players Championship 30 in Leicester. The final event of the PDC ProTour season witnessed a nail-biting encounter that showcased the best of both players.
Rock started strong, capitalizing on Clayton’s early struggles with doubles to establish a comfortable 3-0 lead. Clayton, however, responded with a stunning 132 combination on the bull, opening his account and signaling his intent to fight back.
The Northern Irishman extended his lead to 6-2, but Clayton mounted a remarkable comeback. He unleashed an inspired four-leg burst, hitting legs of 11, 13, 14, and 14 darts to level the score at 6-6. Clayton then matched Rock’s 14-dart hold with a majestic 140 finish, forcing a dramatic decider.
However, Rock held his nerve in the final leg, sealing the title with a composed 118 checkout on tops to secure the £15,000 top prize.
“That was a very, very tough game,” Rock said, acknowledging Clayton’s impressive performance. “That is why Jonny is one of the best players in the world. He just doesn’t go away! He knows what to do, how to do it and when to do it. He came back brilliantly there, but thankfully I hit that 118 checkout!”
Rock’s latest victory comes on the heels of his maiden European Tour success in the Dutch Darts Championship in May and his win at Players Championship 17 in August. This triumph marks his fourth Players Championship final of 2024, demonstrating his consistent high level of performance.
“My TV performances in the last two years have been disappointing, but that will change,” Rock added, clearly determined to improve his performance on the bigger stage. “I don’t know why it hasn’t been happening on the big stage, because I’m not doing anything different. I’m not feeling nervous up there, but things will change, and the one I am most focused for is the World Championship.”
Rock’s impressive journey to the final included a dominant third-round victory over Jim Williams, where he averaged an outstanding 107.67. He also displayed resilience in the quarter-finals, surviving two match darts against Wessel Nijman before comfortably defeating William O’Connor 7-3 in the semi-finals.
Other notable highlights from Players Championship 30 include:
* O’Connor’s thrilling win over top seed Dave Chisnall, who earlier landed a nine-darter, and his subsequent semi-final appearance.
* Andrew Gilding’s exceptional performance, averaging 115.12 to secure a remarkable victory against Connor Scutt, who despite averaging 110.82, only managed two just legs.
* Monk’s impressive run, defeating Chris Dobey and Raymond van Barneveld, securing a place in the last eight.
* Steve Beaton’s final ProTour appearance, where he received a standing ovation from his fellow professionals. Beaton will compete in the Grand Slam of Darts Qualifier and can also secure a place in the 2024/25 World Darts Championship through the upcoming Tour Card Holder Qualifier.
* Nathan Aspinall’s securing of the 64th and final place in the Players Championship Finals, despite a first-round exit. High-profile players like Ricardo Pietreczko, Simon Whitlock, and Jose De Sousa will be absent from the Finals.
With the PDC ProTour season now concluded, the focus shifts to the upcoming Grand Slam of Darts in Wolverhampton from November 9-17. Luke Humphries will look to defend his title alongside other prominent players like Luke Littler and Beau Greaves. The darts calendar remains packed with exciting events, culminating in the 2025 PDC World Darts Championship, commencing on December 15. Sky Sports viewers can catch all the action live throughout the year, including the Premier League, EFL, cricket, tennis, golf, and more, with a Month or Day membership on NOW.
