Luke Littler, the 18-year-old PDC World Champion, is determined to exact revenge at the 2025 World Matchplay, set to begin today, July 19, 2025, at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, following a disappointing first-round loss in 2024. The Warrington sensation, who has dubbed the event “special” due to its unique atmosphere, aims to erase the memory of his 10-6 defeat to Michael van Gerwen last year, where he struggled with focus and costly misses. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Littler told Sky Sports, “I want to pick up as many trophies as I can, but first of all, I want to win a game at the Winter Gardens,” reflecting his resolve to advance beyond the opening stage this time.
Littler’s 2024 exit, marked by an average of 105 at one point but undermined by a lack of rhythm, left him red-faced after pre-match bravado, including jabs at van Gerwen’s holiday status. Now, with a year’s extra experience, a World Championship title, and wins in the Premier League, Grand Slam, and UK Open, he enters as a favorite against Ryan Searle in the first round. His goal is to join the elite “Triple Crown” club—comprising the World Championship, World Matchplay, and UK Open—motivated by the £200,000 top prize and the chance to silence doubters.
Despite warnings from darts legends like Bobby George about the risk of falling from “hero to zero” due to distractions, Littler remains focused, brushing off past setbacks like his driving test failures and personal rumors. His recent spat with Dennis Priestley, which he labeled “banter,” further fuels his drive. As the tournament kicks off, Littler’s quest for redemption promises to electrify the “working man’s Las Vegas” stage.
