Carl Wilson booked his place at the PDC World Darts Championship for the first time after a determined comeback victory over Shane McGuirk in Monday’s UK & Ireland Tour Card Holder & Amateur qualifier.
The 37-year-old Englishman, who has never held a Tour Card and finished the season 58th on the Challenge Tour Order of Merit, recovered from 4-2 down to win the final 7-4. A superb 124 checkout on the bull sealed the match and confirmed Wilson’s ticket to Alexandra Palace in December. Wilson opened his campaign with 6-4 wins over Kevin Lane and Jack Vincent.
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In the last 32 he showed real resolve, surviving multiple match darts from Jack Aldridge – who had led 5-3 – before reeling off three consecutive legs for a 6-5 success. A solid 6-3 victory over Robbie Martin then set up a quarter-final meeting with Steve Beaton.
The Bronzed Adonis was chasing one last appearance on the biggest stage, but Wilson ended those hopes 7-5. He followed that with a controlled 7-3 semi-final win over Steve Lennon to reach the final.On the other side of the draw, McGuirk progressed past Alan Norris (7-3) and Mervyn King (7-5) to set up the decider.McGuirk made the brighter start and led 4-2, missing several opportunities to pull further clear.
Wilson levelled at 4-4 and then punished further missed doubles from the Irishman with clinical 82 and 25 finishes to move 6-4 ahead. The 124 checkout provided the perfect finishing touch on a memorable afternoon.
Wilson Grabs Darts Biggest Moment
For a player who has spent years grinding on the tier tours and other circuits, this represents the ultimate reward. Wilson will now prepare for his first walk-on at Ally Pally under the bright lights of the World Championship.
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Beaton’s latest bid for a return ends in disappointment, while McGuirk, King, Lennon and the rest of the field will look to any other qualification routes and future attempts.
PDC World Championship Qualifier 2026/27
Last 8 results
Final
Carl Wilson (89.27) 7–4 Shane McGuirk (93.88)
Semi-finals
Shane McGuirk (94.39) 7–5 Mervyn King (86.30)
Carl Wilson (87.12) 7–3 Steve Lennon (83.71)
Quarter-finals
Mervyn King (96.64) 7–3 Nick Kenny (88.71)
Shane McGuirk (88.44) 7–3 Alan Norris (85.40)
Carl Wilson (88.19) 7–5 Steve Beaton (83.23)
Steve Lennon (89.60) 7–5 Gary Jackson (81.66)
Images: PDC
