Luke Littler showcased his talent in a nail-biting match against Ryan Joyce, securing a place in the quarter-finals of the World Darts Championship with a 4-3 victory at Alexandra Palace. The 17-year-old prodigy, aiming to improve on his remarkable runner-up finish last year, remained on the front foot throughout, yet faced challenges from his unseeded opponent.
Despite missing a critical opportunity to seal the win in the sixth set due to finishing difficulties, Littler composed himself and claimed the final decider 3-1. As the highest-seeded player remaining in the tournament following the surprising exit of defending champion Luke Humphries, Littler is set to face 12th seed Nathan Aspinall in the quarter-finals.
“I just wanted him to miss,” Littler commented. “I had many opportunities at my doubles while Ryan wasn’t close, but I’m happy to win.”
The match opened strongly for Littler, who fired four perfect darts to initiate a break in the first set, which he closed 3-1. However, Joyce leveled the game following an unusual second set that saw all five legs go against the throw, with Littler struggling to convert double attempts.
After the break, Littler regained his footing, displaying an impressive average of 108.22 to win the third set 3-1, despite ongoing difficulties with doubles. The match intensified as Joyce capitalized on Littler’s missed doubles to clinch the fourth set 3-1, and again battled back to force a decisive seventh set.
With the pressure mounting, Littler delivered successive 180s to kick off the final set and ultimately sealed the match with a double 12, closing it out effectively. “I wouldn’t say I was nervous,” he reflected. “It was adrenaline. I knew the last leg I told myself to hold my own, and I did on that double 12. It shows I can hit it.”
World Darts Championship: Quarter-Final Lineup
| Peter Wright | vs | Stephen Bunting |
| Luke Littler | vs | Nathan Aspinall |
| Chris Dobey | vs | Gerwyn Price |
| Michael van Gerwen | vs | Callan Rydz |
Michael van Gerwen Advances
Michael van Gerwen continued his pursuit of a fourth world title with a 4-2 victory over Jeffrey de Graaf. After an explosive start, van Gerwen faced a strong comeback from de Graaf, who leveled the match after trailing. However, van Gerwen’s resilience shone through as he took the final two sets decisively.
Bunting Stars Against Woodhouse
In the opening match of the evening, Stephen Bunting dominated Luke Woodhouse 4-0, showcasing impressive form as he secured his place in the quarter-finals. Bunting’s efficient play included a stunning 121 checkout in the first set.
The Darts Championship will resume on New Year’s Day, featuring intense quarter-final action. Who will emerge victorious in the Paddy Power World Darts Championship? Stay tuned as the competition heats up!
