Luke Littler has expressed his anticipation for a potential clash with Fallon Sherrock at this year’s PDC World Championship, acknowledging that facing the “Queen of the Palace” would be far from an easy task. As the tournament approaches its December 15 start, excitement is building for what could be one of the standout matches of the early rounds, should Sherrock overcome Ryan Meikle in the first round. Littler, who will enter the competition in the second round thanks to his fourth-place seeding, is fully aware of the challenge that Sherrock, a trailblazer in the sport, could present.
A Potential Historic Showdown
Sherrock made history in 2019 by becoming the first woman to win a match at the PDC World Championship, a moment that catapulted her to global fame and earned her the moniker “Queen of the Palace.” Her journey to the third round that year was a watershed moment for women in darts, inspiring a new generation of female players. Littler, reflecting on Sherrock’s achievements, acknowledged the significance of her potential second-round appearance.
“If I do come across her, I don’t know what the crowd would be like,” Littler told Sky Sports. “Against Fallon, it might be a bit different. I don’t think anyone really missed it [when Sherrock reached the third round in 2019], it was incredible to watch.” His remarks highlight the unique atmosphere that Sherrock’s matches generate, with her presence at the oche often drawing large and enthusiastic crowds.
The Challenge of the First Round
Before the potential clash, Sherrock must first navigate a tough opening-round match against Ryan Meikle. Meikle, known for his consistent performances and competitive spirit, presents a formidable challenge. Littler was quick to recognize the quality of both players, emphasizing that neither can be underestimated. “Good luck to them both. It should be a really interesting game because Ryan’s playing really good and so is Fallon,” he noted. “It won’t be easy [against either of them], 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.”
Littler’s Meteoric Rise
Luke Littler’s journey over the past year has been nothing short of remarkable. The young star burst onto the scene at last year’s World Championship, capturing the imagination of darts fans worldwide with his exceptional talent and poise. Then just 16 years old, Littler defied expectations by reaching the final, where he faced Luke Humphries. Although he fell short, losing 7-4, his performance marked the arrival of a new star in the sport.
Since that breakthrough, Littler has continued to impress on the professional circuit. He has claimed major titles in prestigious tournaments like the Premier League and the Grand Slam of Darts, solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting prospects in the game. Reflecting on his rapid ascent, Littler shared his thoughts with talkSPORT: “This is where it all started, it would have been last night when I won the World Youths in Minehead. And then to go to the Worlds, literally just wanting to win a game, but getting to the final. It’s where it all started for me. I think it’s down to my age and what I’ve done in a short space of time.”
Confidence and Ambition
Despite his youth, Littler exudes a confidence that belies his age. He is acutely aware of the pressures that come with his newfound fame but remains focused on his goals. “I can’t lie I was nervous on my World Championships debut. But this year I’ve won a lot of titles. I’ve hit nine darters, and I come in now with a lot more confidence, and playing better than last year,” he said. This self-assurance will be crucial as he navigates the high-stakes environment of the World Championship.
For Littler, the World Championship represents more than just another tournament; it is the stage where his career took off. “Ever since the Worlds [last year] it has been crazy, that’s where it all started for me,” he remarked. “The buzz is there, I can feel it.” His enthusiasm is palpable, and he is clearly relishing the opportunity to compete on the sport’s biggest stage once again.
Sherrock’s Impact and the Broader Implications
A potential matchup between Littler and Sherrock is more than just an intriguing sporting contest; it carries broader significance for the world of darts. Sherrock’s success has already broken down barriers, and her continued presence at the highest level serves as a powerful reminder of the growing inclusivity within the sport. A high-profile clash with Littler would undoubtedly draw significant attention, not only for the competitive spectacle but also for what it represents in terms of the sport’s evolution.
Looking Ahead
As the PDC World Championship draws nearer, the anticipation surrounding Littler’s performance is matched only by the excitement of seeing how far Sherrock can go this time around. The tournament, which kicks off on December 15 and concludes with the final on January 3, promises to deliver plenty of drama and memorable moments. Littler, with his eyes firmly set on the prize, knows that every match will be a test, but he is ready for the challenge. “Either way, I’m very confident, whoever wins. I just can’t wait to get on stage,” he declared.
For fans, the prospect of a Littler-Sherrock showdown is one of the many reasons to tune in. As Littler himself acknowledged, the atmosphere could be electric, and the stakes could not be higher. With talkSPORT providing live commentary throughout the tournament, fans will have the opportunity to follow every dart thrown, every match won, and every story written on the road to crowning the next World Champion.