Luke Littler’s performance in the first round of the 2025-26 PDC World Championship against Darius Labanauskas has garnered praise. The 18-year-old emerged victorious with a 3-0 win on the lively opening night at Alexandra Palace.
Although Littler secured the win, it was a challenging match for the reigning champion. Labanauskas, who is ranked 95th globally, started strong by clinching the first leg with a remarkable 130 checkout on the bull.
Labanauskas pushed Littler to deciding legs in the first two sets. However, Littler eventually triumphed over Labanauskas, a former World Championship quarter-finalist, setting up a second-round face-off with either David Davies from Wales or Mario Vandenbogaerde from Belgium.
Reflecting on the match, Littler expressed his satisfaction with the victory, acknowledging the initial nerves that settled as he claimed crucial sets. He emphasized the importance of performing well in the challenging first round to secure a win.
Commenting on Littler’s performance, Sky Sports pundit Mark Webster noted the intensity of the match and praised Littler’s ability to overcome the challenges posed by Labanauskas. While Labanauskas provided a tough test, Littler demonstrated resilience and skill, showcasing his determination to advance in the competition.
Following his success, Littler now has a brief break before his next match. The young talent, who lifted the Sid Waddell Trophy earlier in the year, aims to defend his title in the upcoming final.
As the tournament progresses, fans are eager to see if Luke Littler can retain his crown. The competition will continue over the next week, culminating in the final on Saturday, January 3, 2026. Darts enthusiasts can catch all the action live on Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle starting from December 11.
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