Littler Ready to Defend Title, Unfazed by Dominance Criticism

Luke Littler has made a strong start in his title defense at the World Matchplay, defeating Niko Springer 10-6, and believes that instead of complaining about his and Luke Humphries' dominance, others should focus on stopping them. Littler aims to become the first player to win back-to-back titles in Blackpool since Michael van Gerwen in 2016. He began his campaign with an impressive performance, averaging over 109 in the match and over 123 in the final six legs. Humphries, who starts his tournament on Monday, is also a favorite to reach the final, having won the 2024 Matchplay.

The world's top two players have met in several high-profile matches this year, including the Premier League, with Littler winning four of their last five encounters. Littler thinks it's up to other competitors to prevent another final between him and Humphries.

'I think it's just one of those things. You've just got to keep going,' Littler said. 'Obviously, Luke is on form, and I'm on form. If we meet in the final again, so be it.

Everyone can keep complaining, but if no one stops us, we'll keep meeting in finals.' Littler's next match is against Nathan Aspinall, who defeated Joe Cullen 10-5. The outcome of Littler's title defense will have significant implications for the rest of his 2026 season. He confirmed that only a win at the Winter Gardens would lead him to participate in the Pro Tours to qualify for the Players Championship Finals. If he fails to defend his title, he will not attempt to defend his Minehead victory.

'It's a trophy I really wanted because I didn't have it. I'm the defending champion, but I'm not defending a penny,' Littler told Sky Sports.

'It's a free hit, and going back-to-back is a great opportunity. The next nine days will decide if I go to the Players Championship Finals. If I don't win this, I'm not going back to Minehead for the Players Championship Finals.

If I do win this, I'll have to go to some Pro Tours and try to get in there.' The World Matchplay will be broadcast live on Sky Sports from July 18 to July 26.