Luke Littler suffered a setback in his preparations for the PDC World Darts Championship after losing the International Darts Cup final to Michael van Gerwen. The pair faced off in front of 7,500 fans in Tampere on Monday, with the Dutchman edging an 8–6 win to wrap up the exhibition double-header.
Though the International Darts Cup is only an exhibition, its proximity to the World Championship — which begins on December 13 at Alexandra Palace — gives every performance added significance. And for Van Gerwen, the event offered a timely boost as he looks to banish a turbulent year and chase a fourth world crown next month.
Van Gerwen, who opens his campaign against Japanese debutant Mitsuhiko Tatsunami, was beaten by Littler in last year’s Ally Pally final. Reflecting on his form heading into this year’s tournament, he admitted:
“It’s been a tough year, probably my worst ever. There have been a lot of changes in my personal life. You try to adjust, but it’s not always easy. I have big shoulders and I’m facing it — that’s what you have to do to move on.”
The three-time world champion also conceded he is not among the favourites this time around:
“The reality is I’m not the favourite this year. Luke and Luke are playing better than me at the moment, so I have to step up. It’s as simple as that.
“The World Championship is a different animal — the crowds, the stage, the atmosphere, the media attention. It’s a different type of pressure, and it’s nice to be the chaser rather than the one being hunted. My game is getting there, but it takes time. It’s been a really tough period, but I’m still a positive man.”
Littler, meanwhile, is aiming to become the first player in a decade to successfully defend the World Championship title. Only Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis and Gary Anderson have ever retained the trophy at Ally Pally, with Anderson the last to do so in 2015 and 2016.
The world No.1 is ready for the challenge:
“Defending is different. I’ve won the last few majors and now the big one is around the corner. Gary Anderson was the last to go back-to-back, 10 years ago. I’ll try to do the same.
“Only three players have ever defended it, so I want to join them. I’m happy with the draw — he’s not the quickest player, but it’s all about getting through the first round. It won’t be easy, but if there are nerves, I know how to handle them this time. Last year I had no clue; this year I know what to expect.”
