PDC CHAIRMAN Barry Hearn has hailed the success of a record-breaking BetVictor World Matchplay.
The 21st staging of the World Matchplay proved to be one of the most memorable yet, with Phil Taylor following up a nine-dart finish by going on to claim a seventh successive Winter Gardens title as he defeated Michael van Gerwen in the final.
The week also saw a host of thrilling matches in front of packed crowds in Blackpool, while Sky Sports' coverage was screened live worldwide in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Australia, New Zealand and across the Middle East.
"The 2014 BetVictor World Matchplay was one of the greatest tournaments we've ever enjoyed, and we congratulate all 32 players for the fantastic darts they produced in Blackpool," said PDC Chairman Barry Hearn.
"We had over 15,000 fans attending live at the Winter Gardens producing an 11% increase in ticket revenue, and peak television ratings over the tournament were over 20% up on the 2013 event, showing just how popular the World Matchplay is in the British sporting calendar.
"We've already enjoyed an amazing year but the World Matchplay was a particular high to continue the momentum created by a thrilling Premier League Darts season.
"Our focus now moves on to preparing for the World Series of Darts events in Singapore, Perth and Sydney during August before we return to Europe for the autumn's series of majors and the remaining European Tour, ProTour, Challenge Tour and Youth Tour events.
"The next five months promise to be hugely exciting and competitive as we build towards the World Darts Championship."