Get ready for an intense day of curling at the 2026 Crown Royal Players' Championship! Today, we're down to the wire as the final draws for pool play take place. This prestigious Grand Slam event has everyone on the edge of their seats, with only six teams from each division advancing to the playoffs.
The Battle for Supremacy
In the women's division, it's a nail-biting race to the top. With almost every team still in contention, the competition is fierce. Team Rachel Homan, representing Canada, and Team Anna Hasselborg from Sweden, are set to face off again in Draw 13, adding fuel to an already fiery rivalry. Homan, with a record of 1-0-0-2 and three points, needs a win to stay in the running, while Hasselborg, at 1-1-1-1 with six points, is trailing Team Isabella Wranå in a close points race to represent Sweden at the World Women's Curling Championship.
On the men's side, the playoff picture is a little clearer, with three teams already through. Team Kyle Waddell from Scotland has secured a spot in the semifinals with an impressive 7-6 shootout win in Draw 12 against Team Ross Whyte. Team Xu Xiaoming and Team Yannick Schwaller have also qualified for the playoffs, with Schwaller's team guaranteed a spot due to the maximum of six teams reaching 10 or more points.
Who's In, Who's Out?
The women's division is a true battle for survival, with only Team Ikue Kitazawa and Team Momoha Tabata officially eliminated. In contrast, the men's division has a clearer path, with Team Daniel Casper, Team Mike McEwen, Team Brad Jacobs, and Team Niklas Edin already out of the running.
A Day of Must-See Matches
Friday's schedule is packed with thrilling encounters. Keep an eye out for the highly anticipated rematch between Homan and Hasselborg in Draw 13. Additionally, Team Matt Dunstone, representing Winnipeg, has a busy day ahead, taking on Team Joël Retornaz from Italy and Team Ross Whyte from Scotland.
Don't miss Draw 15, which is already sold out, as it promises to be a showcase of top-tier curling.
Stay Tuned for the Latest Results
Follow along throughout the day for live updates and results. You can stream the action on watch.rockchannel.com, and for those in Canada, catch the broadcast on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ starting with Draw 9 at 1 p.m. ET / Noon CT.
Remember to check the quick links for the draw schedule, results, and standings.
Are you ready for the excitement? Who do you think will make it to the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below!
