Littler Dominates Suljovic in World Darts Championship Clash

Luke Littler delivered an impressive performance at the World Darts Championship, defeating Mensur Suljovic with a commanding 4-0 victory in the third round. This win not only showcased Littler’s skill but also marked his ascent as a serious contender for the title, as he lost just three legs throughout the match. He achieved a remarkable average of 107.09, placing him second only to Gian van Veen, who averaged 108.28. With this win, the World No 1 sends a clear message to the rest of the competitors in the tournament.

Littler’s next challenge will be against either Damon Heta or Rob Cross in the fourth round. His performance against Suljovic demonstrated why many believe he could become the first player since Gary Anderson in 2013 to defend his championship title. “I’m very happy. The finishing was good. I don’t think I’ve seen 71 percent (checkout percentage) in my PDC career,” Littler said in an interview with Sky Sports. He added, “I felt so settled tonight. Mensur at his pace, I got myself into a rhythm that matches him. It shows in the average, the finishing at the ton-plus checkouts.”

Strong Performance Against Suljovic

Littler adapted quickly to Suljovic’s slower playing style, which had previously frustrated opponent Joe Cullen. He broke Suljovic’s throw twice and won the first set with an impressive 11-darter. The young player maintained his momentum, averaging an astonishing 108 in the second set, leaving Suljovic searching for answers.

The Austrian managed to engage the crowd in the third set, but Littler clinched the deciding leg with a stunning 124 checkout, his highest of the match. Continuing his dominance, Littler concluded the fourth set without losing a single set in the tournament thus far at Alexandra Palace.

Meanwhile, the tournament also witnessed a significant upset as Stephen Bunting, the World No 4, was eliminated by James Hurrell in a tightly contested match that ended 4-3. Bunting’s defeat marks him as the highest seed to exit this year’s championship. Hurrell displayed superior play throughout the encounter, appearing poised to achieve a clean sweep before Bunting made a comeback with impressive checkouts of 161 and 121.

Bunting, reportedly suffering from a cold, fell behind 2-0 in legs during the second set but demonstrated resilience by taking a 2-1 lead in sets. Despite his efforts, Hurrell surged ahead, winning five of the next six legs, and Bunting’s scoring began to falter. Although Bunting managed to force a deciding set with a 14-darter, Hurrell ultimately broke his throw in the second leg and sealed his victory with another 14-darter.

Hurrell Celebrates Career-Defining Win

“Absolutely amazing. The biggest win of my career,” Hurrell exclaimed after the match, noting that this was only his second appearance at Alexandra Palace. He remarked on his confidence going into the game, stating, “I just need to sort my doubles out a bit.” Hurrell capitalized on Bunting’s celebratory moments, using that energy to fuel his own performance.

Other matches in the tournament also provided thrilling moments. Jonny Clayton achieved a narrow 4-3 victory over Dutch player Niels Zonneveld, averaging 98.44 and hitting 11 maximums. Clayton expressed his relief after a tense match, saying, “I feel good whenever I get up on stage.” He will now face Swedish debutant Andreas Harrysson, who progressed with a 4-2 win over Ricardo Pietreczko.

Krzysztof Ratajski made a remarkable comeback against Wesley Plaisier, who had previously eliminated Gerwyn Price. Ratajski, who averaged 98 and executed four impressive checkouts, will proceed to the last 16 for the second time in his career and will compete against Luke Woodhouse, who secured a 4-1 victory over former UK Open champion Andrew Gilding.

As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more exhilarating matches in the pursuit of the prestigious Sid Waddell Trophy. The championship continues to unfold until January 3, with live coverage available on dedicated sports channels.