News

James Wade missed out on a third World Grand Prix title after his exceptional run was ended by Michael van Gerwen in a closely contested final on Sunday.

The 2007 and 2010 winner lost by five sets to three in the decider after a memorable week, which saw him hit a nine-dart-finish, claim his first victory against Phil Taylor in a televised knock-out tournament and complete a sensational semi-final comeback against Gary Anderson.

And Wade looked to be closing in on his eighth PDC major title when he led 2-0 in the seventh set after the first six had been shared, but he missed three darts for the set as van Gerwen took his chance and went on to win the match.

“Michael’s the man to beat at the moment and unfortunately I didn’t beat him but it has been a good week,” said Wade, who moves up a place to sixth in the world rankings.

“I’ve beaten the best ever player in the world and had some very good performances but I missed too many doubles in the final and paid the price.

“I’m playing good darts, though, and I feel I’m back where I belong and back where I used to be so I’m really looking forward to what is around the corner.”

By Chris Murphy