Andrew Gilding Defeats Chris Dobey to Progress at PDC World Championship

Introduction: A Significant Victory for Goldfinger

Andrew Gilding, affectionately known as ‘Goldfinger’, has secured his place in the third round of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship following a convincing 3-1 victory over former semi-finalist Chris Dobey on Saturday evening at Alexandra Palace. The result marks another strong performance from the veteran player, who continues to demonstrate his resilience and skill on darts’ biggest stage.

The Match Details

Gilding punished a catalogue of missed chances from Chris Dobey to claim a victory that felt decisive long before the final dart was thrown. The 54-year-old Englishman capitalised on his opponent’s struggles with finishing, showcasing the tactical nous and composure that has defined his career.

A former butcher and factory worker, Gilding was a relative latecomer to darts; he started playing in his 30s as part of a pub team. His journey to professional success is one of the sport’s most inspiring stories, having overcome early setbacks to establish himself as a formidable competitor.

Recent Form and Notable Achievements

Gilding’s current form follows a successful 2025 campaign. At the 2023 UK Open, Gilding reached a first televised final and won his first PDC major title, surviving a match dart to defeat Michael van Gerwen 11-10. This landmark victory elevated his status within the sport and proved he could compete with the world’s elite players.

Earlier in the tournament, Gilding claimed a tense 12-10 victory over Damon Heta in a dramatic opening-round clash at the World Championship. His consistent performances throughout 2025 included reaching the World Matchplay quarter-finals, where he held off before eventually losing 16-14 to world champion Luke Littler.

Conclusion: What This Means for Gilding’s Campaign

The victory over Dobey demonstrates Gilding’s ability to perform under pressure at major tournaments. As he advances to the third round, his experience and steady temperament could prove invaluable. For a player who defied conventional expectations by turning professional later in life, each round represents another chapter in a remarkable career story. Fans and competitors alike will be watching closely to see how far Goldfinger can progress in this year’s championship.