Luke Littler’s performance in the first round of the 2025-26 PDC World Championship against Darius Labanauskas has garnered praise. Littler, aged 18, emerged victorious with a 3-0 win at a lively Alexandra Palace.
The match was a tough challenge for the current champion. Labanauskas, ranked 95th globally, started strongly by clinching the first leg with a 130 checkout on the bull.
Despite Labanauskas pushing Littler to deciding legs in the first two sets, Littler eventually prevailed against the former World Championship quarter-finalist. This win sets up a second-round face-off with either David Davies from Wales or Mario Vandenbogaerde from Belgium.
Reflecting on the match, Littler expressed satisfaction with the victory, acknowledging the initial nerves but crediting the crucial first set for settling him into the game. He emphasized the difficulty of the first round, highlighting the importance of playing well to secure a win.
Sky Sports pundit Mark Webster commended Littler’s honesty, drawing parallels to his own challenging first-round experience in the previous year. Webster acknowledged Labanauskas’ efforts but lauded Littler’s ability to overcome the test presented.
After the match, Littler now has a ten-day break before his next game. The young talent, who lifted the Sid Waddell Trophy earlier in the year, aims to defend his title in the upcoming final.
As the first round progresses, the 2025-26 championship final is set for Saturday, January 3, with matches continuing until next Friday. Fans can catch all the action live through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle.
In another match on the opening night, 2023 champion Michael Smith defeated Women’s World Matchplay winner Lisa Ashton 3-0. Smith admitted to feeling the pressure in the nervy first set but found his rhythm to secure the win.
The excitement of the PDC World Darts Championship unfolds starting on December 11, offering fans the opportunity to watch every match exclusively through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle.