Luke Littler, the teenage darts prodigy who took the world by storm with his performances over the past year, has opened up about the prospect of facing the trailblazing Fallon Sherrock at the upcoming PDC World Darts Championship. Littler’s admiration for Sherrock, affectionately known as the ‘Queen of the Palace,’ reflects the mutual respect within the sport and sets the stage for a potential blockbuster encounter at Alexandra Palace next month.
A Path to the Potential Clash
The tournament draw has Sherrock lined up to face Ryan Meikle in the first round. Should Sherrock, who made history by becoming the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship in 2019, defeat Meikle, she will face Littler in the second round. Littler, who enters the competition at this stage as one of the top 32 players in the world, is eagerly anticipating the possibility of such a high-profile showdown.
Speaking about the potential match-up, Littler’s tone was one of excitement and reverence. “If I do come across her, I don’t know what the crowd would be like,” he told Sky Sports. “Against Fallon, it might be a bit different.” The 17-year-old’s reference to the atmosphere underscores Sherrock’s status as a fan favorite, whose 2019 run captivated audiences worldwide. “I don’t think anyone really missed it when Sherrock reached the third round. It was incredible to watch,” he added, recalling the historic moment that inspired so many, including himself.
Sherrock’s Legacy and Current Form
Sherrock’s groundbreaking achievements in 2019 were more than just a momentary triumph; they marked a turning point for women in darts. Her victory over Ted Evetts in the first round and then over Mensur Suljović in the second round sent shockwaves through the sporting world. Her journey to the third round wasn’t just a personal victory but a milestone for the entire sport, showcasing the growing competitiveness and talent in women’s darts.
However, since that historic run, Sherrock has faced challenges in replicating that success on the world championship stage. In her last three appearances, she has failed to progress past the first round, a fact she will be keenly aware of as she prepares for her match against Meikle. This year, she enters the tournament with renewed determination, and the potential of facing Littler adds an extra layer of motivation.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Sherrock expressed her anticipation for the championship: “So I now know I’ll be playing Ryan Meikle in round one at the @OfficialPDC World Championship. The winner will play a certain Mr. Littler in round two. Can’t wait to play at the Palace again.” Her message exudes confidence and hints at the excitement she feels about the opportunity to once again showcase her skills on darts’ biggest stage.
Littler’s Meteoric Rise
For Littler, the upcoming championship is more than just another tournament—it’s a chance to continue a remarkable journey that began at this very venue. Reflecting on his experiences over the past year, Littler acknowledged the profound impact the World Darts Championship has had on his career. “Ever since the Worlds [last year], it has been crazy – this is where it all started for me. The buzz is there, I can feel it,” he said.
Littler’s journey has been one of rapid ascent. From making waves in junior tournaments to becoming a Premier League champion, his trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. Despite his age, he has demonstrated remarkable composure and skill, earning accolades and respect from both fans and fellow players. His performances have solidified his status as one of the sport’s most promising talents, and a potential clash with Sherrock would be another chapter in his burgeoning legacy.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite his confidence, Littler is under no illusions about the challenges that lie ahead. “It won’t be easy [against either of them],” he admitted, referring to Sherrock and Meikle. “No game will be easy this year, but it’ll be a tough test for both of them facing each other in the first round. Either way, I’m very confident, whoever wins.”
Littler’s remarks highlight the competitive nature of the championship, where every match is a battle and no opponent can be underestimated. Ryan Meikle, Sherrock’s first-round opponent, is a formidable player in his own right, and the outcome of their match is far from certain. Littler’s acknowledgment of this underscores his respect for the competition and his understanding of the pressures involved.
A Clash of Styles and Stories
If Sherrock does advance to face Littler, the match will be more than just a contest of skill—it will be a meeting of two players whose stories have captivated the darts world. Sherrock, the pioneer who broke barriers and inspired a generation of female players, and Littler, the teenage sensation whose talent and charisma have brought fresh energy to the sport.
Their potential encounter would also be a clash of styles. Sherrock’s precision and tactical acumen would be pitted against Littler’s raw talent and fearless approach. The atmosphere at Alexandra Palace, already electric during the World Darts Championship, would reach new heights as fans witness this historic showdown.
The Broader Impact
Beyond the immediate implications for the tournament, a match between Littler and Sherrock would have broader significance for the sport of darts. It would highlight the increasing diversity and inclusivity of the game, showcasing how far it has come and the exciting future that lies ahead. For young players, especially girls, Sherrock’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that barriers can be broken, and dreams can be realized.
Conclusion: A Match to Remember?
As the PDC World Darts Championship approaches, the anticipation surrounding a potential Littler-Sherrock clash continues to build. While both players have challenges to overcome before that match can materialize, the mere possibility has captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Whether or not the match happens, Littler’s respect for Sherrock and his excitement for the tournament reflect the spirit of sportsmanship and passion that define darts. For Littler, Sherrock, and fans everywhere, the stage is set for a championship to remember.