Luke Littler advanced to the World Matchplay Darts final at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool after securing a 17-5 victory over Dirk van Duijvenbode, according to Sky Sports reporting. Littler posted a 110.88 average, hit 16 maximums (180s), and converted 50 per cent of his doubles during the semi-final clash.
Luke Littler’s Record-Breaking Run at the Winter Gardens
The 17-5 demolition of Van Duijvenbode builds on a series of dominant statistical displays by Littler at the Blackpool venue. According to tournament data, Littler previously posted an average over 113 alongside a nine-darter against Nathan Aspinall, followed by 109 averages against Niko Springer and Josh Rock in the quarter-finals.
Littler’s career earnings have now surpassed £3m in prize money, creating a £2m gap between himself and world No 2 Luke Humphries, as reported by Sky Sports. Littler is attempting to become the first player in a decade to win back-to-back titles in Blackpool, a feat last accomplished by Michael van Gerwen in 2016.
Did you know?
During his semi-final match against Dirk van Duijvenbode, Luke Littler recorded a stunning second-session average of 117.10, coming within 0.9 of Phil Taylor’s record Matchplay average of 114.99.
Gerwyn Price Reaches First TV Ranking Final in Three Years
In the other semi-final, Gerwyn Price defeated Gian van Veen 17-10 to secure his spot in the World Matchplay final, according to Sky Sports. The victory marks Price’s first appearance in a Blackpool final since 2022, when he lost 18-14 to Michael van Gerwen, and represents his first TV ranking final in three years.
The win elevates Price to the world No 4 ranking and reclaims the Welsh No 1 spot from Jonny Clayton. “Jonny Clayton – I am more happy to be Wales’ No 1- come on,” Price told Sky Sports after the match, noting that Clayton had held the national ranking for about a year-and-a-half.
Match Statistics and Tournament Context
Price controlled his semi-final against Van Veen with a late surge, averaging over 111 in the fifth session and finishing with a decisive checkout on tops to seal the 17-10 scoreline. Meanwhile, Littler survived a late wobble against Van Duijvenbode—missing five match darts in the 22nd leg before securing the win with back-to-back maximums and a finish on tops.
Littler told Sky Sports that he is targeting long-term dominance in the sport. “I want to stay dominant. I want to keep winning and winning,” Littler said. “I want to be at the top and I want to beat Phil’s record of world No 1 which is three or four years.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is playing in the 2026 World Matchplay Darts final?
Luke Littler will face Gerwyn Price in the best-of-35-leg final at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.
What are Luke Littler’s recent tournament statistics?
According to Sky Sports, Littler reached the final with a 110.88 average, 16 180s, and a 50 per cent checkout success rate against Dirk van Duijvenbode.
When does the World Matchplay final start?
Live coverage begins on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event, with the final scheduled to get underway around 8:15 p.m.
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