A Nail-Biter in Belfast
The 2025 Premier League Darts kickstarted in Belfast with a match that lived up to the hype, as Michael van Gerwen achieved a thrilling 6-5 victory over reigning champion Luke Littler. This face-off wasn't just about points; it was a personal clash, especially following Littler's victory over Van Gerwen in the esteemed 2025 World Darts Championship final. Fans eagerly awaited this fixture, hoping for fireworks, and the players did not disappoint.
Van Gerwen's win was nothing short of dramatic. Littler, stepping up with a near-114 average, was no easy competition. The match went to a tantalizing last-leg decider where fans were kept on the edge of their seats. Littler, showing remarkable skill, executed a stunning 161 checkout to level the match at 2-2, temporarily seizing momentum. However, despite Littler's impressive throws, missed opportunities, especially the bullseye and double 13, opened the door for Van Gerwen to capitalize. In a tense battle, it was Van Gerwen's decisive double 8 that sealed his victory in the final leg, narrowly fending off Littler's 167 checkout attempt.
A Rivalry Reignited
The rivalry between Van Gerwen and Littler, further fueled by past encounters where Littler triumphed at the World Championship and the Dutch Darts Masters, is rapidly becoming one of the fiercest in the darts world. This match, played under the best-of-11-legs format, continued to highlight the quality and competitiveness between these athletes. Notably, this win marks Van Gerwen's first Premier League triumph over Littler, setting an assertive tone for his 2025 campaign.
Besides the electrifying action on stage, the drama extended to the post-match interviews as Van Gerwen openly criticized Littler's professionalism. The 18-year-old Littler was previously late for media obligations, something Van Gerwen didn't hesitate to address. He openly remarked that Littler 'needs to learn' the responsibilities of top-tier professional sports, pointing to the importance of punctuality.
The intensity, skill, and rivalry on display in this match promise an exciting season ahead in the Premier League Darts. As Van Gerwen and Littler continue their darting journey, fans can expect more exhilarating contests filled with high-quality darts and perhaps, more off-the-board confrontations. It's this mix of drama, skill, and athletic rivalry that keeps the darts crowd coming back for more.