Darts Showdown: Luke Littler Set to Face Michael van Gerwen in Highly-Anticipated 2024 World Matchplay First Round
The draw for the 2024 World Matchplay has set the stage for a tantalizing first-round clash between darts sensation Luke Littler and former champion Michael van Gerwen.
At just 17 years old, Littler has taken the PDC circuit by storm, with a blistering run that included winning the Premier League, a World Series title, two Euro Tours, and a Players Championship tournament in his debut six months. Alongside the reigning world champion Luke Humphries, Littler is among the top favorites to lift the coveted World Matchplay trophy in Blackpool.
“This is a crucial encounter for the three-time world champion.”
For Van Gerwen, the stakes are high as he aims to defend the title he won in 2022, which contributed significantly to his position on the PDC Order of Merit. A first-round defeat would see the Dutchman lose nearly 20% of his ranking points, making this a crucial encounter for the three-time world champion.
The draw has also ensured that Humphries, the tournament’s top seed, could potentially face his two biggest rivals, Littler and Van Gerwen, only in the final. Humphries will open his campaign against Ricardo Pietreczko, while another intriguing first-round matchup is the clash between Gary Anderson and Michael Smith.
The 31st edition of the World Matchplay will take place from July 13 to 21, with defending champion Nathan Aspinall taking on debutant Luke Woodhouse in the opening round. Darts fans can follow all the live scores and updates through our comprehensive coverage.
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