Whitlock to reunite with Aussie superstar Heta in PDC world pairs in Frankfurt

There was much speculation surrounding the composition of the Australian pairing for this year’s instalment of the PDC World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt. Would the veteran return? Would a new face step up? But fans can rest easy — the familiar and formidable duo of Simon Whitlock and Damon Heta will once again fly the flag for Australia in 2025, aiming to reclaim the prestigious World Cup trophy.

Simon Whitlock, affectionately known as "The Wizard," has not secured a PDC tour card this year after falling short in the gruelling Q-School process. However, his reputation, experience, and ongoing commitment to the game has earnt him an invite to this event that is without a doubt one that is circled every calendar year.

Whitlock and Heta were victorious in 2022 and will to make it deep into the tournament again this year.

Determined to wind back the clock, Whitlock is hoping to channel the magic of years past and put on a vintage display that has thrilled fans around the world for many years. Despite not being on the Pro Tour full-time, Simon has kept his game sharp through regular appearances at the MODUS Super Series, the World Seniors circuit, and several exhibition events — one of which saw him produce a stunning perfect 9-dart leg against Jack Howarth in Middlesbrough, where he sealed a 3-0 victory, a clear sign that the fire still burns brightly.

The World Cup of Darts also marks the beginning of a crucial stretch for Whitlock, who will use this platform to gather momentum for the remainder of the year. With the Australian leg of the ANZ Premier League scheduled for October, Simon has his sights set on gaining enough form and confidence to mount a serious campaign for qualification to the sport’s pinnacle event — the World Championship at Alexandra Palace in December.

Joining Whitlock once again is Damon Heta, currently ranked 10th on the PDC Order of Merit, and Australia’s current top-ranked player. Heta has been in blistering form as of late, having just made a fantastic run to the final on a recent European Tour event, and securing wins at various Players Championship events — including a standout victory at Players Championship 18.

Damon Heta is known for his hilarious walk-ons during televised events.

However, he’ll be the first to admit that he's eager to translate that form into the big stage performances at televised majors, where the stakes are significantly higher.

Heta and Whitlock’s chemistry as a team remains one of the strongest in the tournament. Their mutual respect, understanding of each other’s rhythm, and shared national pride make them a dangerous pair for any opposition. The duo etched their names into history by lifting the World Cup in 2022, a landmark achievement that resonated throughout the darts community in Australia. Last year, they came heartbreakingly close to repeating that triumph, falling narrowly to a resurgent Italy in a thrilling last 16 clash.

Now, in 2025, they return with unfinished business. With elite pairs lined up across the draw, the Aussie tandem knows the road ahead won’t be easy especially with a tough draw ahead of the But with Heta's red-hot form and Whitlock’s unshakeable determination, this could well be the year they reclaim the trophy and once again make Australia proud on the world stage.