Joe Cullen wins dramatic darts title in Hildesheim!

Joe Cullen wins dramatic darts title in Hildesheim!

An exciting darts weekend in Hildesheim! Joe Cullen secured the Players Championship 27 title in a thrilling final against Gerwyn Price. The Bradford native has thus taken a decisive step towards qualifying for the World Grand Prix in October. Price was narrowly defeated - a bitter setback for the defending champion, who had been in strong form before this tournament and had only lost six legs in his previous rounds.

Cullen, who had struggled with mixed performances in the previous days, was able to improve significantly after intensive training. He started the tournament with a victory over Brendan Dolan and then made short work of his other opponents: Adam Hunt, Cameron Menzies, Robert Grundy and James Hurrell all fell 6-4 before defeating Scott Williams 7-1 in the semi-final. These impressive performances catapulted Cullen into the final against Price, where the intensity of the duel was unbeatable.

A finale full of drama

In the final against Price, Cullen initially led 5-3, impressed with a 94 finish and hit an incredible nine 180s throughout the game. However, Price equalized later in the final with legs of 12 and 11 darts and a 104 finish. Ultimately, the decision came in the final leg, with Cullen hitting the decisive double four and winning the match 8-7. This was a brilliant victory, which the Bradford native played perfectly with an average of 99.78. “I haven't worked hard enough in the last few months,” admitted Cullen after his triumph, which now opens up new perspectives for him.

The situation was bittersweet for Price, who despite his loss posted a great average of 104.98 in the semifinals. He still remains at the top of the Players Championship leaderboard and took home £10,000 in prize money thanks to his second place. Over the next few weeks, Price will be eager to prepare for the big tournaments ahead.

Outlook for the next challenges

With this title win, Cullen's chances of taking part in the BoyleSports World Grand Prix in Leicester next month have improved. The tournament will take place from October 6th to 12th. A good performance there could give him and many darts fans optimism that this is the turning point for his season. The omens are good, as his recent performances have shown that he has once again found his way back on track. Maybe soon it will be enough for more than just the last 16 - with this attitude Cullen could really come into his own.

The darts world remains excited for what's to come! The next opportunity to prove yourself on the big stage is just around the corner.