In a heart-pounding clash at the 2025 World Matchplay in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, Luke Littler, the reigning PDC World Champion, showcased his resilience and flair, clawing his way back from a daunting deficit to secure a thrilling 13-11 victory over Jermaine Wattimena. The second-round battle, which unfolded on Wednesday night, July 23, 2025, was a testament to Littler’s unyielding spirit and undeniable talent, cementing his status as a darts prodigy with a knack for turning the tide when the stakes are highest.
The match began with a shocking turn of events as Wattimena, the Dutch dynamo known for his rapid-fire throwing, stormed to a commanding 4-0 lead, leaving the packed Empress Ballroom crowd stunned. Littler, who had entered the tournament as the favorite following a dominant 10-2 rout of Ryan Searle in the first round, appeared rattled as Wattimena’s precision and pace overwhelmed him. The Dutchman’s onslaught continued, stretching the lead to 7-2 with a blistering 11-dart leg punctuated by back-to-back 180s. For a moment, it seemed the 18-year-old sensation from Warrington might be on the verge of a rare early exit.
But Littler, dubbed “The Nuke” for his explosive scoring power, refused to surrender. Channeling the tenacity that earned him the world title earlier in 2025, he ignited a remarkable comeback, reeling off six consecutive legs to seize an 8-7 advantage. The momentum shift was palpable, with Littler’s every dart met by roars from the electrified crowd. At one point, visibly frustrated yet defiant, he pointed to the star on his shirt—a symbol of his world champion status—signaling to both himself and the fans that he was far from finished. “I’m a world champion for a reason,” Littler later told reporters, reflecting on the gesture. “I find these gears when I need it.”
The match, a best-of-25-leg affair, surged into a tiebreaker as Wattimena, undeterred by Littler’s resurgence, fought back to level the score. Both players traded blows, with missed doubles adding to the drama. Wattimena, who had shown his mettle by surviving two match darts, pushed Littler to the brink. Yet, it was Littler’s trusted double 10 that ultimately sealed the deal, ending the contest in a nail-biting 13-11 finish. “I’ve not felt pressure like that since the first round of the world championship,” Littler admitted post-match. “I was a bit nervous, but the crowd was unbelievable, and I just can’t wait to get back on stage.”
Littler’s victory was not just a display of skill but a reflection of his mental fortitude. Unlike his first-round demolition of Searle, where he averaged an astonishing 108.92, this match tested his ability to adapt under pressure. His preparation for the tournament, a departure from his usual minimal practice routine, also played a pivotal role. “I’ve been putting in hours and hours,” Littler revealed, a statement that underscores his determination to claim the World Matchplay title, a key piece of the darting Triple Crown alongside the World Championship and Premier League.
Wattimena, despite the loss, earned plaudits for his fearless performance. His fast-paced style, which Littler acknowledged suited both players, made for a breathless encounter. “He’s another fast player, so it was very quick,” Littler noted, highlighting the relentless rhythm that defined the match. The Dutchman’s earlier triumph over 2021 champion Peter Wright in the first round had hinted at his potential, but facing Littler, a player he has now lost to in all five of their professional meetings, proved a step too far.
This epic win propels Littler into the quarter-finals, where he will face former UK Open champion Andrew Gilding on Friday, July 25, 2025. Gilding, fresh off an 11-5 victory over Dirk van Duijvenbode, promises to be a formidable opponent. Yet, Littler’s confidence remains unshaken. “I want to add this title to my collection,” he declared, his eyes already set on the semi-finals, where a potential clash with either Josh Rock or Gerwyn Price awaits.
The 2025 World Matchplay has already delivered its share of shocks, with world number one Luke Humphries and other top seeds falling early. Littler’s ability to navigate this high-stakes thriller against Wattimena only strengthens his case as the man to beat. As he continues his quest for a maiden World Matchplay title, the darts world watches in awe, knowing that with Littler, the improbable is always within reach.
That meant everything❤️ had to dig deep to complete the comeback and jermaine was amazing. what a match😤 pic.twitter.com/fhbZKTOfhU
— Luke Littler (@LukeTheNuke180) July 23, 2025
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