Baltic Sea Darts Open 2025: Field, Draw, Schedule and Predictions

Nicolas Gayer, writer for DartsNews.DE sees a certain Northern Irishman over his compatriot.

When it comes to players in form right now, there’s simply no getting around Josh Rock. The Northern Irishman – fresh off his World Cup triumph – continues to prove that he’s among the very best in the world this year. At Players Championship 20, Rock reached the quarter-finals, where he narrowly lost despite averaging 109. Earlier that same day, he had already hit a nine-darter and posted another 109+ average. His level right now is simply outrageous.I also expect the big names to start positioning themselves for the upcoming World Matchplay. I’m tipping Luke Humphries for a deep run, and I believe Stephen Bunting, Nathan Aspinall and Gerwyn Price all have what it takes to be part of the final session this weekend.

Another player I’m keeping a close eye on is Gary Anderson. As brilliant as The Flying Scotsman has been on the floor over the past few years, things haven’t quite clicked for him on the big TV stages. He’s often spoken openly about how, even with all his experience, nerves can still creep in. The fact that he’s entered this event – and continues to play European Tour events despite having already secured a title this year – shows just how much stage practice still means to him.

And finally, on a personal note, I’m really looking forward to the long-awaited European Tour debut of Host Nation Qualifier Martin Kramer. Martin is one of the most well-known players in my local darts association and has dreamed for years of finally stepping onto a PDC stage. Since I know him personally, I’ll admit I’m not entirely impartial here – but it’s a moment Im looking forward to massively.

Favourites

*** Josh Rock

** Luke Humphries, Gerwyn Price

* Stephen Bunting, Gary Anderson, Damon Heta

Mats Leering, writer for DartsNieuws.com sees a Price and Humphries conundrum also as well as mentioning his own compatriots as potential surprises.

At the moment, I see a whole bunch of players who are in form and could perform well in Kiel. Gerwyn Price was sublime in Poland last weekend, and could go far again with that same form. Bunting is also in top form, although this seems to be mainly in the World Series events. Heta won another Players Championship tournament on Tuesday, which means that he too should be able to go far.

Although at majors and Euro Tours the Australian is often less successful. Then of course you have the standard names to keep an eye on, such as Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen, who are always among the favourites. Josh Rock is also in good form and could be an outsider for the title.As for the Pro Tour players, I also see plenty of names that could go far. Martin Schindler, Ryan Searle and Mike De Decker are all hard to beat on a good day.

In addition, with Wessel Nijman, Gian van Veen, Dirk van Duijvenbode and Jermaine Wattimena, you also have 4 Dutchmen who could all cause a surprise.

Favourites:

***Gerwyn Price, Luke Humphries

**Stephen Bunting, Damon Heta

*Michael van Gerwen, Dirk van Duijvenbode, Josh Rock

Kieran Wood, writer for DartsNews.com is also picking Cool Hand Luke to rise to the test.

With the World Matchplay looming large, everyone will be heading to Kiel with a point to prove — whether it’s securing a spot in Blackpool or fine-tuning form ahead of the summer’s biggest stage event.

Reigning Matchplay champion Luke Humphries is my pick to go all the way. He’s looked sharp in recent weeks and, having finished runner-up here last year, will be keen to go one better this time.

I also expect strong performances from Gerwyn Price and Stephen Bunting, both of whom are trending in the right direction at just the right time. Josh Rock continues to show flashes of brilliance and is never far away from a deep run, while defending champion Rob Cross is always a threat when the big moments roll around.

Favourites

*** Luke Humphries

** Gerwyn Price, Stephen Bunting

*Josh Rock, Rob Cross