Michael van Gerwen defeats Luke Littler at World Matchplay; Second round action starts on Tuesday

The World Matchplay darts tournament heated up on Monday as Michael van Gerwen defeated 17-year-old Luke Littler in their first-round showdown. Van Gerwen emerged victorious with a score of 10-6, showcasing his exceptional skill and resilience on the stage.

In a match where both players averaged over 100, Van Gerwen managed to outshine his young opponent and secure his spot in the next round. Despite Littler’s early lead, Van Gerwen staged a comeback and ultimately sealed the win, leaving Littler with a tough loss in his tournament debut at the prestigious Winter Gardens.

Post-match, Van Gerwen expressed his emotions and satisfaction with the hard-fought victory. He acknowledged the talent of his opponent and credited his dedication and practice for the positive outcome. The Dutchman will now face Joe Cullen in the second round, poised to continue his journey in the World Matchplay.

In another thrilling match on Monday, Michael Smith also showcased his prowess by overcoming a slow start against Gary Anderson to claim a 10-5 victory. Smith’s remarkable comeback from being 3-0 down highlighted his determination and skill on the darts board.

As the tournament progresses, the excitement continues to build with top players facing off in the upcoming matches. Fans can look forward to more intense competition as the second round kicks off on Tuesday, with Gerwyn Price, Nathan Aspinall, Luke Humphries, and Jonny Clayton among the players set to compete.

The World Matchplay action will be live on Sky Sports Main Event and Action, offering viewers a front-row seat to the thrilling encounters and unexpected outcomes in the world of professional darts. Stay tuned for more updates and surprises as the tournament unfolds.