The world of professional darts is gearing up for one of its classic showdowns as the 2026 Winmau World Masters approaches, with veteran star James Wade openly addressing the challenges he faces against the sport’s current sensation, teenage phenom Luke Littler. Wade, a ten-time major winner known as “The Machine” for his consistent, methodical style, has never shied away from speaking his mind, and his latest comments highlight both respect for his younger rival and a candid acknowledgment of the hurdles in their potential path.
The Winmau World Masters, returning to Arena MK in Milton Keynes from January 29 to February 1, 2026, promises high drama with its sets-based format—best of three legs per set, escalating from best of five sets in the opening round to best of 11 in the final. The 32-player field features the top 24 from the PDC Order of Merit post the 2025/26 World Championship, seeded accordingly, alongside qualifiers. Littler, fresh off defending his world title and holding the number one seeding, leads the pack as the reigning champion. Wade secures a strong seeded position at 11, ensuring he enters in the first round proper on January 29 or 30, avoiding the preliminary qualifiers on January 28.
In his reflections ahead of the tournament, Wade admitted a clear “disadvantage” when sizing up a matchup against Littler. The veteran pointed to the generational gap and differing approaches to the game as key factors. While Littler bursts onto stages with explosive scoring, youthful energy, and fearless finishing, Wade relies on experience, tactical nous, and endurance built over two decades at the top. This contrast, Wade suggested, puts him at a structural disadvantage against the prodigy who has redefined darts’ spotlight since bursting onto the scene.
Despite this self-assessed edge for Littler, Wade remains defiant and optimistic about his own prospects. He has dismissed notions that the current crop of top players—including Littler and world number two Luke Humphries—are unbeatable, instead labeling many as capable but inconsistent compared to legends like Phil Taylor or Michael van Gerwen in their prime. “I don’t believe anyone’s amazing apart from probably the Luke and the Luke,” Wade stated, referring to Littler and Humphries, “and after that they can be quite lazy. They are not Phil Taylors. They are not Michael van Gerwens at their best, but they are phenomenal players. But there are gaps in the market and it is what it is.”
Wade’s comments stem from a broader frustration with perceptions of the modern game. He believes doubters underestimate his ability to capitalize on those “gaps,” insisting he can still claim major TV titles. “I still think it’s laughable that people don’t think I can win things,” he declared. “What will be will be. I still think I’ll win TV majors and I don’t see any reason why not.” Even after less-than-stellar performances in build-up events, Wade’s competitive fire burns bright—he genuinely doesn’t fear any opponent, including Littler. “I genuinely put my hand on my heart and don’t really care who I play,” he added. “If I play well, I put up a fight and I do well. Obviously Luke is doing amazingly well, but it’ll be what it’ll be.”
Littler, meanwhile, enters the Masters with sky-high ambitions. Having recently claimed the inaugural Saudi Arabia Darts Masters title by defeating van Gerwen in the final, the 19-year-old shows no signs of slowing down. He views the World Masters as the next major box to tick in his burgeoning career, a title still missing from his trophy cabinet despite past deep runs, including a quarter-final exit in 2025 where he averaged over 108 yet fell short. After a brief post-birthday break, Littler plans an intense practice push, fully aware of the event’s unique demands and his own drive to add another prestigious crown.
The potential for Wade and Littler to cross paths adds intrigue, though the draw will determine if their matchup materializes early or in later stages. Past encounters have been electric, with both players trading blows in high-profile clashes across majors. Wade’s experience has occasionally frustrated the youngster, but Littler’s rapid improvement and current form make him the favorite in any head-to-head.
As darts fans anticipate the Milton Keynes spectacle, Wade’s honest admission underscores the sport’s evolving dynamics: veterans like him must adapt to a new era dominated by prodigious talent, yet their grit and insight keep them dangerous contenders. Whether the “disadvantage” proves decisive or Wade bridges the gap with trademark resilience, the World Masters is poised to deliver compelling drama on the oche. With Littler chasing history and Wade refusing to fade, this tournament could redefine rivalries and showcase why darts remains one of the most unpredictable and thrilling sports around.
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