Luke Littler sent warning as Van Gerwen makes statement | Other | Sport
Luke Littler suffered a pre-PDC World Darts Championship setback after he was beaten in the final of the International Darts Cup by Michael van Gerwen. Monday’s showdown was played in front of 7,500 fans in Tampere, with the Dutchman sealing an 8–6 victory to close out the exhibition double-header.
Although the International Darts Cup is an exhibition event, its timing gives every result an added layer of meaning, as the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship starts on December 13 at the Alexandra Palace. And Van Gerwen is determined to put a tumultuous year behind him by claiming a landmark fourth title next month.
The Dutchman, who faces Japanese debutant Mitsuhiko Tatsunami in the first round, was beaten by Littler in last year’s final. And looking ahead to this year’s competition, Van Gerwen said: “It’s been a tough year, probably my worst year ever.
“There have been a lot of changes in my personal life. You need to try and adjust, but that’s not always easy.
“I have big shoulders and I am facing this situation, and that’s what you have to do if you want to move on.”
Before the three-time world champion added: “The reality is I’m not the favourite this year. Luke and Luke are playing better than me at the moment, so I have to step up. It’s as simple as that.
“The World Championship is a different animal – the crowds, the stage, the atmosphere, the media attention.
“It is a different type of pressure, and it’s always nice to chase someone. It’s easier than being hunted.
“My game is getting there, but it takes time. Everyone knows where I am coming from. As I’ve said before it’s been a really tough period, but I am still a positive man and that is really important.”
Meanwhile, Littler wants to become the first person in a decade to successfully defend the World Championship. Only Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis and Gary Anderson have ever defended their title at Ally Pally, with the Scot winning in 2015 and 2016.
But the current world number one said: “Defending is different. I have won the last few majors and now the big one is around the corner.
“Gary Anderson was the last person to go back-to-back and that was 10 years ago. I’ll try to go back-to-back.
“Only three people have ever done it, the last time was 10 years ago. So I want to go back-to-back. I am very happy with the draw, he’s not the quickest player in the world, but it’s all about getting past the first round.
“It won’t be easy, but I just have to try and get past the first round. If there is nerves I will know how to cope, I didn’t have a clue last year, but this year I know what to expect.”
