Luke Littler entered the 2026 World Matchplay in Blackpool carrying the weight of expectation as the defending champion, and he has responded with a display that can only be described as extraordinary. While a nine‑dart finish on a major stage is typically a career‑defining moment for most players, for Littler it is merely the opening act of a performance that is rapidly becoming the benchmark for the sport. From the moment he stepped onto the Blackpool arena floor, Littler demonstrated why he is regarded as the pre‑eminent talent in darts today.
His statistics from the tournament are nothing short of staggering. In the opening rounds he posted an average of 109, followed by a blistering 113 in a subsequent match, before settling back to a 109 average in the next encounter – figures that underline his consistency and scoring power across a range of high‑pressure situations. "I feel really good up on the stage," Littler said in a post‑match interview. "The preparation has gone smoothly – I’ve been able to relax, practice, and then relax again.
It’s a privilege to perform on the biggest stages in darts." His calm demeanor belies the intensity of his play; he repeatedly emphasized that his success is built on a blend of mental composure and raw scoring ability. "As long as I can keep it up, I’m confident I’ll dominate. In the next game I’ll push the average back up to the 113s," he added, signalling his ambition to keep raising the bar. The next round presented a formidable challenge in the form of Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode, who was tasked with halting Littler’s surge.
Yet, even before that showdown, Littler had already etched his name into the record books by securing his 27th consecutive match win that extended beyond 20 legs – a testament to his stamina and resilience over extended formats. Littler’s quest carries additional historical weight.
He is chasing the rare feat achieved by Michael van Gerwen in 2016: winning the Blackpool World Matchplay in consecutive years. Van Gerwen’s 2016 back‑to‑back victories remain a gold standard, and Littler’s current form suggests he is on a clear path to match, if not surpass, that legacy. Moreover, the world number one currently holds an unprecedented haul of major titles, including the World Darts Championship, the UK Open, the Premier League, and the Masters.
He also defends the Matchplay, Grand Slam, Grand Prix, and the Players Championship Finals, underscoring his dominance across the sport’s most prestigious events. Sky Sports darts analyst Mark Webster summed up Littler’s performance with a succinct yet powerful endorsement: "Good luck," he said, addressing van Duijvenbode ahead of their Saturday clash. Webster continued, "He can play in spells. I say spells because he’s been doing it all tournament.
I was delighted for Josh because it was an improved performance and a 101 average, but he lost by nine legs, which just shows how good Littler is." He added, "He looks comfortable in every scenario. Good luck to Dirk on Saturday.
It’s a 111 tournament average. He’s played almost 60 legs.
He’s just too good! He’s focused and relaxed. He’s by far the best player in the world. It’s frightening form." The quarter‑finals will continue to be broadcast live from 7:30 p.m.
on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Action, featuring a repeat encounter between Gian van Veen and James Wade, who meet for the second consecutive year. Wade, the world number three, will be seeking redemption after his 2025 loss to the player nicknamed "The Machine." In another marquee matchup, Gerwyn Price will face Ross Smith, who advanced to the quarter‑finals after Cameron Menzies was forced to withdraw from their second‑round encounter due to illness. Beyond the immediate drama, Littler’s campaign raises broader questions about the future trajectory of professional darts.
His blend of youthful exuberance, meticulous preparation, and relentless scoring efficiency sets a new standard for upcoming players. Analysts are already debating whether his style – characterized by rapid scoring bursts followed by strategic pauses – could become the template for the next generation. Fans and commentators alike are also noting the impact of technology and media on the sport’s exposure.
With platforms such as NOW streaming darts alongside traditional broadcasters like Sky Sports, the audience reach is expanding, bringing more casual viewers into the fold and increasing the pressure on players to perform under a global spotlight. Littler appears to thrive in this environment, using the heightened visibility as a catalyst rather than a distraction. As the tournament progresses, the central narrative will revolve around whether Littler can sustain his current level of excellence and claim the elusive back‑to‑back Blackpool title. His opponents, aware of his formidable form, will need to elevate their own games dramatically.
Yet, given his track record – a string of high averages, a record‑breaking streak of long‑leg victories, and the confidence expressed by seasoned pundits – Littler stands as the clear favorite. The final stages of the World Matchplay promise to deliver high‑octane darts action, and viewers can follow every throw live on Sky Sports or via the NOW streaming service. Whether you are a die‑hard darts enthusiast or a newcomer drawn in by the sport’s growing popularity, Luke Littler’s journey this week offers a masterclass in skill, composure, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.