Luke Littler’s performance against Darius Labanauskas in the initial round of the 2025-26 PDC World Championship has garnered admiration. The 18-year-old emerged victorious with a 3-0 win on the lively opening night at Alexandra Palace.
Despite his triumph, the reigning champion faced a tough challenge. Labanauskas, the 95th world-ranked player, started strong by securing the first leg with a 130 checkout on the bull.
Labanauskas took both of the first two sets to deciding legs, but Littler eventually overcame the former World Championship quarter-finalist. This win sets up a second-round match for Littler against either David Davies from Wales or Mario Vandenbogaerde from Belgium.
Reflecting on his victory, Littler expressed, “It wasn’t easy, but I’m pleased with the outcome. Winning a leg and set helped calm my nerves. The first set was crucial against the darts, and everyone aims to advance beyond the first round as it’s the toughest game.”
Mark Webster, a Sky Sports pundit, commended Littler’s honesty, drawing parallels to his own challenging first-round experience in the past. Webster emphasized the significance of the deciding leg in the opening set and praised Littler’s performance despite facing a tough test from Labanauskas.
Having secured the win, Littler now enjoys a 10-day break before aiming to defend his Sid Waddell Trophy in the upcoming final next month.
In other matches on the opening night, 2023 champion Michael Smith defeated Women’s World Matchplay winner Lisa Ashton 3-0. Smith admitted to feeling nervous in the first set but found his rhythm after securing it, ultimately clinching the victory.
The first round of the championship will continue for another week, culminating on Friday. The final for the 2025-26 season is scheduled for January 3.
The PDC World Darts Championship kicks off on December 11, with exclusive live coverage available through Sky’s Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle for fans.