As the players prepare to take to the oche, here are the latest odds for the biggest darts tournament in the world.
Starting on Friday, December 15, 2023, and reaching its conclusion on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, the New Year-spanning PDC World Championships is the most sought after trophy in darts.
This year’s tournament is the 31st organised by the Professional Darts Corporation since it separated from the now-defunct British Darts Organisation and will take place at London’s Alexandra Palace, better known to fans as the Ally Pally.
England's Michael Smith is the defending champion, but will face stiff opposition to retain his title, as this list of the leading contenders shows.
9. LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 29: Josh Rock of Northern Ireland celebrates during his Fourth Round match against Jonny Clayton of Wales during Day Ten of The Cazoo World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace on December 29, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images)
The first player to throw a televised nine-dart finish in his debut season, Northern Ireland's Josh Rock is 33/1 to win the world championships on his first try. He previously won the 2022 PDC World Youth Championship.
11. ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - MARCH 24: James 'The Machine' Wade of England competes against Peter 'Snakebite' Wright of Scotland during Night 7 of Cazoo Premier League Darts on at Rotterdam Ahoy on March 24, 2022 in Rotterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
James 'The Machine' Wade is also 40/1 to lift the trophy. The Englishman has won 11 majors - the third highest title in history - but has yet to reach the final of the World Championships.