Darts
2024 World Matchplay: Michael van Gerwen Upsets Tournament Favourite Luke Littler
Michael van Gerwen upsets the tournament favourite Luke Littler, defeating him 10-6.
In what proved to be an electrifying clash in the opening round of the 2024 World Matchplay, Luke Littler, the teenage sensation, faced off against his arch rival, the Mighty Michael van Gerwen.
Surprisingly, van Gerwen entered the match as the underdog for the first time in recent memory.
Van Gerwen's Fiery Start
Both titans of the sport showcased their exceptional scoring prowess in the opening five legs of the match. Van Gerwen, in particular, was in formidable form, securing a 3-2 lead as they headed into the first interval.
High-Octane Duel
The current Premier League champion found few opportunities to break the rampant Dutchman's stride in the following two legs. Littler didn’t get a single chance at a double as MVG surged ahead to a 5-2 lead.
Littler regained momentum by winning the next two legs, highlighted by a sensational 11-dart finish. Yet, MVG capitalised on another slip-up from the 17-year-old to secure a 6-4 lead going into the second interval.
Both players maintained impressive averages over 100, making this match a Winter Gardens classic.
Image credit: PDC
MVG Upsets the Teenage Sensation
In the 11th leg, MVG swiftly dispatched another leg to extend his lead to 7-4 without drama.
Littler clawed back one more leg, but van Gerwen continued to demonstrate his class by executing a superb 146 checkout to go up 8-5.
The teenage sensation showed flashes of brilliance himself, sealing an unconventional 73 checkout with a bullseye finish.
Ultimately, van Gerwen proved too formidable for Littler. Although MVG narrowly missed a bullseye to clinch the match with a spectacular 170 finish, he secured victory in his next visit, defeating the tournament favourite 10-6.
The Green Machine will now face Joe Cullen in the next round of the competition.
Stay tuned to SportsBoom.com for live updates, post-match reports, and interviews from the legendary Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Don't miss a moment of the action!
Recommended Articles
Meet Louis Hobbs, our esteemed authority on all matters sports-related. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, Louis effortlessly emerges as our go-to expert. His particular expertise in the realms of darts and snooker sets him apart and brings a level of insight that goes beyond the ordinary. Louis also holds a deep affection for all things related to US sports, with a special emphasis on basketball and American football, which stand out as his particular favorites. His content may not resonate with you, if you don't consider Lamar Jackson the most skilled player in the NFL.