Teenage Darting Star Luke Littler to Face Michael van Gerwen in World Matchplay First Round

Teenage darting sensation Luke Littler is set for an epic clash in his Blackpool debut at the World Matchplay as he faces three-time champion Michael van Gerwen in a thrilling first-round showdown. The 17-year-old Premier League champion and World Darts runner-up has been handed a tough assignment against the seasoned Dutchman, with the pair having played each other nine times previously, with Van Gerwen narrowly edging the head-to-head record 5-4.

The World Matchplay, one of darts’ most prestigious events, will also feature other exciting matchups in the first round, including 2018 winner Gary Anderson taking on world No. 3 Michael Smith, Jonny Clayton facing Raymond van Barneveld, and defending champion Nathan Aspinall going up against Luke Woodhouse.

The tournament, taking place at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool from July 13 to July 21, will see the top 32 darts players in the world battling it out for victory. With a rich history of past winners including legends like Phil Taylor and recent champions like Michael van Gerwen, the World Matchplay promises to provide thrilling darts action for fans worldwide.

Don’t miss the action as these top players compete in a legs format, with the tournament culminating in a highly anticipated final to determine this year’s champion. Tune in to Sky Sports to catch all the darting action live and witness the drama unfold at the World Matchplay!