Luke Littler entered the 2026 Blackpool World Matchplay as the defending champion, shouldering the weight of expectation that comes with holding the title. While a nine‑dart finish on the Matchplay stage would normally be the pinnacle of a player's career, Littler’s achievements this year have eclipsed even that spectacular feat.
From the outset, Littler demonstrated why he is considered one of the sport’s brightest stars. His statistical output has been nothing short of extraordinary. In a series of matches that have been captured on video (viewers are advised to use Chrome for the optimal player experience), his averages have consistently hovered around the 109‑113 mark—a range that, in professional darts, signals both precision and relentless scoring power.
The numbers are not merely impressive; they are a clear indication that Littler is operating at a level few have sustained over an entire tournament. When asked about his mindset heading into the event, Littler appeared relaxed and confident.
"I feel really good up on the stage," he said. "The preparation has gone smoothly—lots of practice, a lot of relaxation, and then back to practice again. I’m just happy I can perform on the biggest stages." This calm approach, combined with his formidable skill set, has allowed him to dominate opponents with a blend of high averages and clinical finishing.
"A 109 average, a 113, then back down to a 109 with big finishes—that’s the kind of scoring power I have," he explained, emphasizing his belief that consistency will keep him ahead of the competition. The next round pits him against Dutch contender Dirk van Duijvenbode, a player who will be tasked with halting Littler’s momentum. Up to that point, Littler’s victory over his previous opponent, Rock, marked the 27th consecutive match in which he has won a game extending beyond 20 legs—a streak that underscores his stamina and mental fortitude in long‑format contests. Littler’s broader ambition is equally historic.
He aims to become the first player since Michael van Gerwen in 2016 to secure back‑to‑back titles at Blackpool. Van Gerwen’s 2016 achievement remains a benchmark for consistency at the highest level, and Littler’s current run suggests he may soon join that elite company. Moreover, the world number one currently holds a quartet of major titles—the World Darts Championship, the UK Open, the Premier League, and the Masters—while also defending the Matchplay, Grand Slam, Grand Prix, and the Players Championship Finals. In this context, Littler’s quest for consecutive Blackpool crowns takes on added significance, as it would place him alongside the sport’s most dominant figures.
Sky Sports Darts commentator Mark Webster summed up the sentiment surrounding Littler’s form with a succinct wish: "Good luck." Yet his words carried an undercurrent of awe. "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, so it just shows how good Littler is," Webster noted. He continued, "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. Among the other match‑ups, Gian van Veen will meet James Wade for a second consecutive year, with Wade seeking revenge for his 2025 loss to "The Machine".
Meanwhile, Gerwyn Price will clash with Ross Smith, who advanced after Cameron Menzies withdrew due to illness during their second‑round encounter. For fans wondering who will ultimately claim the 2026 World Matchplay title, all signs point to Littler as the favorite. His blend of high averages, composure under pressure, and an uncanny ability to sustain peak performance across extended legs makes him a formidable opponent for any challenger.
Whether he can replicate van Gerwen’s back‑to‑back triumph remains to be seen, but the evidence suggests that Littler is on a trajectory that could rewrite the record books. Viewers can follow every moment of the tournament on Sky Sports, with additional streaming options available through NOW. As the competition unfolds, the darts community will be watching closely to see if Littler’s "frightening form" will indeed translate into a historic repeat victory at Blackpool.