The line-up for the final two Players Championship events of 2026 has been confirmed, with almost all the top players set to compete at Players Championship 33 and 34 at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester. However, Luke Littler will miss the final double-header, confirming that the world champion will not compete at the Players Championship Finals.
Littler's absence comes as little surprise, given that he has played just two floor events this year. There was still a slim chance he might try to qualify for the season-ending tournament during this final double-header, but his withdrawal now confirms he will not be at the Players Championship Finals. Other big names with plenty still to play for who will be competing include Raymond van Barneveld, Nathan Aspinall, Gary Anderson, Josh Rock and Gerwyn Price.
Raymond van Barneveld is currently 81st on £25,750, trailing 64th-placed Wesley Plaisier by £6,000. The Dutchman will likely need to reach at least two semi-finals in a row, make a final on one of the days, or even win an event. Anything less looks like a tough ask for the five-time world champion. Josh Rock and Nathan Aspinall are in a similar position. The current world numbers eight and nine sit 80th and 78th in the Players Championship Order of Merit. Like Van Barneveld, they will likely need to reach the last four on at least one day. An early exit in the first event could put extra pressure on them heading into the final day.
Gary Anderson is another notable name outside the top 64. However, the Scot is only £2,000 short and could therefore climb several places more easily. He will still need to win his matches, while those above him must avoid making deep runs. Gerwyn Price is currently just inside the top 64, but can ill afford to lose his opening match on both days. He is 58th on £34,000, with a lead of just £2,250 over Plaisier. Two first-round exits could therefore leave him just outside the qualification places. The same applies to Mike De Decker, who is 61st on £33,250.
There is still plenty at stake for several top players in the final two floor events of the year. Littler's withdrawal also confirms that the world champion will not compete at the Players Championship Finals.
