Chris Dobey is brimming with confidence ahead of his World Matchplay return in Blackpool this weekend Off the back of two ProTour titles in 2026, it has been a good year so far for Hollywood. Since Dobey gained his Tour Card in 2015, he has played in the 2023 and 2025 Premier League campaigns after […]
Chris Dobey is brimming with confidence ahead of his World Matchplay return in Blackpool this weekend
Off the back of two ProTour titles in 2026, it has been a good year so far for Hollywood.
Since Dobey gained his Tour Card in 2015, he has played in the 2023 and 2025 Premier League campaigns after featuring as a contender in 2019 and challenger in 2020.
The 36-year-old’s first PDC final came in 2016, where he was beaten by Simon Whitlock in the final of Players Championship 19, but has since won 11 titles in the sport.
His most notable victory was his 2023 Masters victory in Milton Keynes, defeating Rob Cross 11-7 in the final to claim his first major title.
The Geordie will look to go beyond his best World Matchplay result of a quarter-final in 2023 as he returns to Blackpool for his seventh appearance.
He takes on Dirk van Duijvenbode in round one game, and the Bedforshire-born star assessed his chances in Blackpool after the draw was completed.
“I’ve played him numerous times now and we’re similar players – very big scorers and it’s all about the doubles on the day,” said Dobey.
“I’m playing some great stuff at the moment and it’s taking good performances to beat me, so I’m happy with my form going into the World.
“I feel confident that I can have a good run in Blackpool.”
Van Duijvenbode is known for his monstrous scoring and in particular his nine-darters, of which he hit an impressive tally of four on the tour in 2025.
The pair met in Leverkusen at the European Darts Open last weekend and the Dutchman emerged victorious, triumphing 6-2 after Dobey hit just 25% of his double attempts.
Although Van Duijvenbode is yet to win a title so far in 2026, he came close after finishing runner-up to a vintage Michael van Gerwen at Players Championship 15 in Leicester.
Dobey, meanwhile, is looking forward to his upcoming round one battle, eyeing a fourth successive win in his opening match at the iconic Winter Gardens.
“I’m looking forward to that one and I’ve got to knuckle down, get to work and brush our friendship aside,” said Dobey.
“It’s a great venue, the most iconic venue and it’s probably my favourite tournament.
“The fans are fantastic, respectful and a great crowd and it’s up there as one of the best events we have.”