Luke Littler Cruises into Second Round of World Matchplay with Dominant Display

Posted : 21 July 2025

World champion Luke Littler delivered a statement performance in the opening round of the 2025 World Matchplay, overpowering Ryan Searle 10–2 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. After suffering a first-round exit on his debut last year against Michael van Gerwen, the 18-year-old was determined to make a stronger impression this time around—and he did so in emphatic fashion.

From the very first dart, Littler set the tone with a ruthless display, winning the opening four legs with just 48 darts. He finished the match with a remarkable average of 108.92 and a checkout rate of 52.6%, leaving Searle—ranked 19th in the world—with little opportunity to respond.

The young star's win contrasted sharply with the fate of world number one Luke Humphries, who was eliminated in his first-round match on Saturday. Speaking to Sky Sports after his victory, Littler said, “I felt very comfortable out there. I was really up for tonight, and I’m just so happy to get the win and experience that winning feeling.”

He went on to explain that, despite his reputation for not practicing regularly, he had dedicated more time to preparation for this tournament—and it clearly paid off. “I’ve been practising more at home, and I’m glad it showed. I’m really looking forward to the next match,” he added.

Littler will next face Dutch player Jermaine Wattimena, who caused an upset by defeating 2021 champion Peter Wright in a tight 10–8 contest. The surprises didn’t stop there, as former champion Rob Cross was also knocked out following a 10–8 defeat to Dirk van Duijvenbode of the Netherlands.

Meanwhile, 2018 titleholder Gary Anderson advanced with a 10–5 win over Luke Woodhouse, setting up a second-round clash with Stephen Bunting. Bunting, seeded fourth, survived a tense battle against Ryan Joyce. After leading 8–4, Bunting saw his advantage evaporate before eventually holding his nerve to win 10–8.

Fifth seed Jonny Clayton also progressed, overcoming Germany’s Martin Schindler 10–7 despite trailing in match averages—Clayton posted a 99.60 compared to Schindler’s 103.45. After the match, the Welshman expressed his ambition to go all the way: “I’m here to win this tournament. Hopefully this will be my week. I love it when I get through the first round.”

Luke Littler Cruises into Second Round of World Matchplay with Dominant Display

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