A stellar performance by Luke Littler in the opening round of the 2025-26 PDC World Championship against Darius Labanauskas has garnered praise. Despite a challenging match, Littler, 18, emerged victorious with a 3-0 win at Alexandra Palace amidst an enthusiastic crowd.
Labanauskas, the 95th-ranked player globally, showcased his prowess by clinching the first leg with a remarkable 130 checkout on the bull. The encounter saw both players pushing each other to deciding legs in the first two sets. Ultimately, Littler managed to outshine Labanauskas, a former World Championship quarter-finalist, setting up a second-round faceoff with either David Davies from Wales or Mario Vandenbogaerde from Belgium.
Reflecting on the match, Littler expressed satisfaction with his win, acknowledging the initial nerves that settled once he secured a crucial set against the darts. He emphasized the significance of progressing past the challenging first round and credited his performance for the victory.
Notable commentator Mark Webster lauded Littler’s honesty and resilience, noting that despite facing a tough test from Labanauskas, Littler displayed composure and determination, showcasing his potential even in a challenging situation.
Looking ahead, Littler now has a well-deserved 10-day break before aiming to defend his title in the upcoming final, scheduled for next month. The tournament’s progress can be followed as fans anticipate the outcome, with the first round continuing until next Friday, leading up to the highly anticipated final on January 3, 2026.
In other matches on the opening night, Michael Smith, the 2023 champion, secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Women’s World Matchplay winner Lisa Ashton. Smith acknowledged the nerve-wracking start but expressed relief and determination as he settled into the game, ultimately clinching the win.
As the competition unfolds, fans eagerly await the upcoming matches, with the PDC World Darts Championship commencing on December 11. Exclusive live coverage of every match is available through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering fans an immersive viewing experience.