In the electrifying atmosphere of Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, the 2025 Betfred World Matchplay witnessed a dazzling performance from 18-year-old darts prodigy Luke Littler, who obliterated Ryan Searle with a commanding 10-2 victory in the first round. The reigning PDC World Champion, known as “The Nuke,” delivered a masterclass on July 20, 2025, securing his first-ever win at the prestigious tournament and sending a resounding message to his rivals. With an astonishing average of 108.92 and a 52.6% checkout success rate, Littler’s performance was a statement of intent, proving that his preparation and hunger for success have elevated him to new heights.
Littler’s journey to this moment was fueled by a determination to erase the memory of his 2024 World Matchplay debut, where he fell to eventual finalist Michael van Gerwen in the first round. This time, the second seed was relentless from the outset, racing to a 5-0 lead in the opening session with a jaw-dropping 121 average. His first five legs were dispatched in a blistering 12, 12, 13, 11, and 14 darts, showcasing an almost unplayable standard. A highlight was his fantastic 126 checkout, which left the Winter Gardens crowd roaring and Searle, the world No. 19, scrambling for answers. “I was well up for it tonight, I just wanted to get that win, get that winning feeling and I did it,” Littler told reporters after the match, his voice brimming with confidence. “I’m so glad to get that win, get that winning feeling and I can’t wait to come back.”
Unlike his usual approach, Littler revealed he had poured “hours and hours” into practice for this event, a departure from his reputation as a player who relies on natural talent over rigorous training. “People will know I’m not a practiser, but I have been practising for this one,” he admitted, acknowledging an “up and down” 2025 season that included a Players Championship title but also inconsistency. His preparation paid dividends, as he maintained relentless pressure on Searle, who managed a brief glimmer of hope with a break of throw to make it 8-2. However, Littler’s focus never wavered, and he sealed the match with clinical precision, advancing to face Jermaine Wattimena in the second round.
The night was not without surprises elsewhere. The tournament, running from July 19 to July 27, saw top seed and defending champion Luke Humphries suffer a shock 10-8 upset to Gian van Veen on opening night, while eighth seed Nathan Aspinall fell 10-6 to debutant Wessel Nijman. Sunday’s afternoon session brought further drama, with four seeds—Damon Heta, Rob Cross, Peter Wright, and Dave Chisnall—crashing out. Andrew Gilding edged Heta 12-10 in an overtime thriller, nearly hitting a nine-darter, while Dirk van Duijvenbode rallied from 6-2 down to defeat Cross 10-8. Wattimena ousted Wright 10-8, and Mike De Decker stunned Chisnall 10-7 with a dazzling 148 checkout. Amid these upsets, 2018 champion Gary Anderson delivered a solid 10-5 win over Luke Woodhouse, despite a spectacular 167 checkout from his opponent.
Littler’s performance stood out as the night’s pinnacle, earning praise from fans and pundits alike. “Littler when he’s in the mood just isn’t fair on the other players! Madness how he’s so far ahead of them all,” one fan posted online, capturing the sentiment of awe surrounding his display. Another likened him to a young Bobby Fischer revolutionizing chess, highlighting his generational talent. With a £800,000 prize fund and the Phil Taylor Trophy at stake, Littler’s odds were boosted to 2/1 by bookmakers, reflecting his status as a tournament favorite alongside Humphries, Gerwyn Price, and Aspinall before their exits.
The World Matchplay, now in its 32nd year, continues to captivate at the Empress Ballroom, with the Women’s World Matchplay also scheduled for July 27. Littler’s demolition of Searle has set a high bar, and his next challenge against Wattimena, who upset 2021 champion Wright, promises another test. “I felt very comfortable out there,” Littler said, emphasizing his readiness. “All eyes are on me now, just take it game by game.” As the tournament progresses, with blockbuster clashes like Michael van Gerwen versus Raymond van Barneveld headlining Monday’s session, Littler’s blistering form suggests he’s not just chasing his first Blackpool title but aiming to cement his legacy as darts’ brightest star.
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