Littler aims for back-to-back World Matchplay title
7 reported
Luke Littler is attempting to become the first player in a decade to win successive titles at the World Matchplay, according to a Sky Sports report. The tournament, which runs from July 18 to 26 at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, has historically been dominated by Phil Taylor, who won 15 titles between 1994 and 2014. Michael van Gerwen was the last player to achieve back-to-back wins, securing the double in 2015 and 2016. Littler, the current world No. 1, already holds multiple titles including the World Championship, World Grand Prix, and Premier League. Sky Sports News’ Michael Bridge noted that Littler has not played much recently due to PR events and his absence from the EuroTour, but suggested a win could propel him to enter more tournaments. The article is based solely on this single source.
What’s reported
Luke Littler is the current world No. 1 and reigning World Matchplay champion.
He is trying to become the first player in a decade to retain the World Matchplay title.
Michael van Gerwen last achieved back-to-back wins in 2015 and 2016.
Phil Taylor won 15 World Matchplay titles from 1994 to 2014.
The 2026 World Matchplay runs from July 18 to 26 at the Winter Gardens.
Littler has won the last two World Darts Championships.
Sky Sports News’ Michael Bridge said Littler has been in America for the World Series and doing PR events, and is not currently part of the EuroTour.
Key figures
Luke Littler: world No. 1 and current World Matchplay champion
Michael van Gerwen: former champion who won back-to-back in 2015 and 2016
Phil Taylor: 15-time World Matchplay winner
Michael Bridge: Sky Sports News reporter
Sources: Sky Sports
