Littler sets Matchplay record as Van Gerwen drops to world No 6
Luke Littler's record-breaking performance at the World Matchplay underlines his growing commercial value to darts broadcasters, while Michael van Gerwen's exit costs him £100,000 in ranking prize money.
World number one Luke Littler defeated Nathan Aspinall 11-8 at the World Matchplay in Blackpool, hitting a nine-darter in the opening leg and recording a 113.68 average. Littler also struck 14 maximums and narrowly missed a second perfect leg in the fourth set. His average is the second-highest ever recorded at the tournament, trailing only Phil Taylor's 114.99 in 2010.
For the sport's broadcasters and sponsors, Littler's sustained peak performance represents a major commercial asset. His ability to produce record-breaking television moments sustains audience growth and justifies the investments of platforms like Sky Sports, which is airing the event until July 26. Aspinall contributed to the spectacle with a 101 average, pushing Littler all the way before the world number one sealed the win with a 52 checkout.
The tournament's competitive and financial landscape shifted significantly with the elimination of Michael van Gerwen. The fourth seed lost 14-12 to fellow Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode in a tense tie-break. Van Gerwen, who was visibly struggling with a shoulder injury, rallied from 8-4 down to force the decider. However, the defeat carries an immediate economic penalty: Van Gerwen entered the event defending £100,000 in prize money and will now drop provisionally to world number six.
Van Duijvenbode secured victory on his seventh match dart, capitalizing on a crucial 11-dart leg where he landed six perfect darts to break throw at 13-12. He advances to face Gary Anderson, who overcame a 4-1 first-session deficit to beat Jonny Clayton 11-7. Anderson's victory marks his first appearance in the tournament's quarter-finals in six years.
Littler will face Josh Rock in the next round after Rock's 11-6 victory over Stephen Bunting. "It felt amazing. Probably the best game me and Nathan have played against each other," Littler said. The second round concludes on Wednesday with four matches, including Cameron Menzies facing Ross Smith and world number three Gian Van Veen playing Wessel Nijman.
