Glen Durrant Sends Message to Beau Greaves Ahead of Crucial World Championship Call

In the heart of Manchester, the Target 2025 launch was more than just a product unveiling—it was a celebration of darts and its ever-growing presence. Among the many familiar faces in attendance was three-time BDO World Champion Glen Durrant, who shared his thoughts on everything from the sport’s rising stars to the return of legendary figures.

“A Pinch-Me Moment”

Having attended several Target events before, Durrant admitted this one felt different. “I’ve done a few Target launches now, but this one was special—because of the location, because of the people. It really was a pinch-me moment,” he told Online Darts.
“There was a photo earlier with Phil [Taylor] at the front, Barney, Luke Littler… it just went on and on. Incredible. And the technology—the new darts are spot on.”

Set in the centre of Manchester, the launch impressed even those from other sports. “I was chatting with someone from snooker who said, ‘Snooker’s miles behind darts now—you’d never see anything like this,’” said Durrant. “It’s incredible. It shows where darts is heading: stronger, bigger. Target really know how to put on a show.”

He also praised the latest Target gear. “I did some work at a trade show in Milton Keynes recently, and the new barrel was fantastic. But the Elysian—the archetype—that’s a piece of art.”

On Michael van Gerwen: “Darts is Better When He’s Winning”

The conversation naturally turned to Michael van Gerwen, who recently returned to top form with a win at the World Series of Darts Finals in Amsterdam.

“I was so happy—and I got the sense other players were too,” Durrant said. “It reminded me of when I hit rock bottom and other players were quietly rooting for me. That hug Michael gave Mike De Decker… it just went on. Darts is in a better place when Michael is playing well. Was I surprised? A little. But I was very happy for him.”

With the major tournaments fast approaching, van Gerwen’s resurgence couldn’t be better timed.
“There’s always a shift after the World Series ends. Everyone’s minds move to the big ones: the Euro Tours, the European Championship, the Players Championship Finals, the Grand Prix—and, of course, Ally Pally with a million pounds on the line. It’s the best time of the year.”

Van Gerwen’s return also fuels his developing rivalry with Luke Littler. “I don’t want to put pressure on the lad, but Luke looked steaming angry after that final. But then he hugged Michael—and that’s exactly where I want him. He’s so mature. He’s the headline act now. He’s got that aura—like MVG, like Phil Taylor. If we get a world final with Michael and Luke, no one’s going to complain.”

Only three players have ever defended a PDC world title. Can Littler become the fourth? “He handles pressure better than anyone,” Durrant said. “But with 128 players, he’s always a little vulnerable in the first round or coming back after a few days off. That’s what Ally Pally can do. But once he hits his stride—he’s the man to beat. If you’re going to beat Luke, get him early.”

Beau Greaves: “It’s Time for Alexandra Palace”

Durrant also weighed in on the future of 21-year-old Beau Greaves, who faces a decision between competing at Lakeside or Alexandra Palace.

“I interviewed her recently and she said, ‘Glen, I’m 21—I don’t plan three or six months ahead. I’ll decide when the time is right,’” he shared. “But now she’s signed with Target, I think they’ll want her at Ally Pally. My advice? You’ve done Lakeside three times. A fourth would be great, but go to Ally Pally. Go have that moment. Go and show what you’ve got there.”

Adrian Lewis: “Happiness Is More Important Than a Comeback”

The discussion also touched on the return of two-time World Champion Adrian Lewis, who recently appeared at the Modus Super Series.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect—but he was brilliant,” Durrant said. “He looks happy with exhibitions, with family life. Part of me worries that if he returns to the full tour, it might not be what he wants. I played the Super Series myself, and sometimes I didn’t even want to be there.”

For Durrant, Lewis’s well-being matters more than any comeback. “He’s a legend, and only he knows if he wants to come back. If that fire reignites, I’ll be watching Q-School. But right now, if he’s happy being a grandad and doing exhibitions, then let him be. You can have all the money in the world, but being a grandad—that’s the best moment of my life by a country mile.”

Looking Ahead to a Packed 2026

With the 2026 PDC calendar already confirmed, Durrant knows next year will be busier than ever. “Two hours on the train from Darlington to Manchester and I was the only one writing in a paper diary—everyone else was on their phones,” he laughed. “But it’s rammed. Absolutely crammed.”

As a freelancer, his schedule is still uncertain. “Am I doing the Premier League? The Euro Tours? Who knows. But what a time to be a darts player.”

Despite the hectic calendar, Durrant’s passion for the sport remains undimmed. “I feel like a kid in a sweet shop. As a player, I might give a different answer—but as a pundit, a coach, a fan? I love this sport. I’ll watch the Modus Super Series on a Saturday night, I’ll watch Ally Pally. I just love darts.”