Martin Lukeman vs Max Hopp Preview & Prediction | 2025-26 PDC World Darts Championship | First Round
In what is arguably the most evenly-matched tie on Monday, we see London’s Martin Lukeman take on Germany’s Max Hopp for a place in the second round
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / USA – Peacock
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Peacock Premium
Martin Lukeman vs Max Hopp prediction
Martin Lukeman returns to Ally Pally for the fourth time and the Londoner will be hoping to beat his previous best finish this time around. The 40-year-old has been knocked out in the second round in all three previous appearances at the PDC World Darts Championships and he will be eager to go further this time around.
It has not been the best year for him after a 2024 which was arguably the breakout campaign for him. he reached the Grand Slam of Darts final that year and showed he is more than capable of going deep in tournaments but he has yet to really hit those heights this year.
He takes on a resurgent Max Hopp who is hoping to regain his best form after some difficult years beset by injuries.
Hopp is making his first appearance at All Pally in five years but he is familiar with the tournament having played every year from 2013 to 2021.
The Maximiser will have to raise his game if he is to progress but he is more than capable of doing that. We can see a really close-fought match here and one that could easily go either way. Our play is on set betting in this one and we think this goes all the way.
Martin Lukeman vs Max Hopp tip: Over 4.5 total sets
