Littler Fires 109+ Average to Launch World Matchplay Defence in Style

Luke Littler, the reigning World Matchplay champion, opened his title defence in breathtaking fashion on Saturday night. The teenage sensation produced an electrifying display, averaging over 109 as he powered through his first-round fixture with emphatic ease. For those who thought his breakthrough win last year might be a flash in the pan, Littler sent a clear message: he is here to stay.

The Performance

From the very first dart, Littler looked in imperious form. His scoring was relentless, hammering in treble after treble, and his finishing was clinical. An average above 109 is elite company at the World Matchplay, a tournament known for its high-pressure opening rounds. The crowd, already firmly behind the young star, roared with every checkout. It was not just a win — it was a statement.

The Context The World Matchplay, staged at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, is one of darts’ most prestigious titles. Littler won it last year as a wildcard, defeating a string of veterans to claim the Eric Bristow Trophy. This year, he returns as defending champion — a role that carries its own burden. But if his opening performance is anything to go by, the pressure seems to sharpen his game rather than weigh him down.

What It Means Averaging over 109 in your first match of the tournament sets a daunting standard. For Littler, it shows he has matured as a player, able to handle the target on his back. For his rivals, it is a warning: the young champion is raising his game when it matters most. If he maintains this level, another deep run — and perhaps back-to-back titles — is a very real prospect.