Luke Littler delivered a thrilling comeback to defeat Mike de Decker 10-9 and book his place in the Grand Slam of Darts quarter-finals, showcasing composure and skill well beyond his 17 years. In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Littler demonstrated resilience and a flair for the dramatic as he overturned a significant deficit to secure a showdown with Jermaine Wattimena in the next round.
The clash between Littler and De Decker unfolded with fireworks from the outset. Littler made a strong start, quickly racing to a 2-0 lead, seemingly putting himself in control of the match. However, De Decker, a seasoned Belgian competitor, struck back with precision, leveling the score and gradually gaining momentum. As the match progressed, it became apparent that Littler would face an uphill battle. De Decker built an imposing 8-4 lead, leaving the teenager with a daunting task if he hoped to extend his run in Wolverhampton.
In response to the mounting pressure, Littler dug deep and showcased exactly why he is considered one of the most promising young talents in darts. He launched a spirited comeback, highlighted by an impressive 11-dart leg that helped him claw back into contention. His fighting spirit was on full display, and the match turned into a captivating duel as De Decker sought to close things out.
De Decker had a golden opportunity to seal victory when he stepped up to attempt a 170 checkout. With the crowd holding its breath, he narrowly missed the bullseye, a moment that would prove pivotal. Littler seized the chance to draw level, taking the match to a nail-biting 9-9 tie. The final leg was a test of nerves, and Littler rose to the occasion. Staying calm under immense pressure, he landed treble 18 followed by double 16 to complete a remarkable turnaround and clinch the victory.
After the match, Littler reflected on the emotional rollercoaster he had just experienced. “I don’t know if I enjoyed that. I’ve got to feel for Mike. I didn’t think I was in the game, but I know I can always switch that gear,” he said in an interview with Sky Sports. Littler also acknowledged the tactical adjustments he made to slow his pace toward the end, a strategy that ultimately paid off. “Early on I was at my normal pace but towards the end I was taking an extra second, and that helped me. I might have to throw like that from now on.”
Despite his initial doubts about overcoming the deficit, Littler expressed disbelief and delight at his dramatic victory. “I didn’t think I could overturn the deficit [in the final session]. I just can’t believe it.”
Elsewhere in Wolverhampton, Jermaine Wattimena, Littler’s upcoming quarter-final opponent, also triumphed in a tense battle, edging out Dimitri van den Bergh in another 10-9 thriller. Wattimena showcased remarkable consistency and nerve, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying match against Littler. Both players have proven their mettle in high-pressure situations, and fans can expect fireworks when they meet in the quarter-finals.
Other results from the evening saw Gian van Veen cruise to a dominant 10-2 win over Ryan Joyce, demonstrating his clinical finishing and superior scoring power. Meanwhile, Gary Anderson, a seasoned campaigner and fan favorite, overcame Stephen Bunting with a 10-6 victory. Anderson’s experience and tactical acumen were on full display, as he weathered a mid-match surge from Bunting to seal his place in the last eight.
The quarter-final draw for the Grand Slam of Darts is now set, promising a mix of thrilling encounters and contrasting styles. In the top half of the draw, Cameron Menzies will face Mickey Mansell, while Martin Lukeman takes on Rob Cross. Meanwhile, the bottom half features Littler’s clash with Wattimena and the intriguing battle between Anderson and van Veen.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether the youthful exuberance of Littler can carry him further in the competition or if the experience of his competitors will prevail. For now, Littler’s comeback victory stands as one of the highlights of this year’s event, a testament to his talent, composure, and the unpredictable drama that makes darts a captivating sport for fans worldwide.