Dutch Darts Masters: Littler Edges Van den Bergh in First-Round Clash

Luke Littler beats Dimitri Van den Bergh 6-4 at the Dutch Darts Masters, setting up a World Championship final rematch with Michael van Gerwen.

Luke Littler, 18, is bracing himself for the worst ahead of Saturday's highly anticipated rematch against Michael van Gerwen, 35, in the Dutch Darts Masters. This encounter comes just three weeks after the World Championship final. Littler secured his spot in the rematch by defeating Belgian Dimitri Van den Bergh 6-4 in a thrilling come-from-behind victory.

Job done for tonight, back for more tomorrow see you then❤️🎯 pic.twitter.com/S7Ks195QSx

— Luke Littler (@LukeTheNuke180) January 24, 2025

Reflecting on his match against Van den Bergh, Littler said, “I wanted to go three or four up, but Dimi (Van den Bergh) played well to get back to 2-2.” When asked if he was ready for the challenge against Van Gerwen, who will be playing just 13 minutes away from his hometown of Vlijmen, Littler responded cautiously, “As soon as that winning dart went in, I knew what was coming tomorrow, but let's expect the worst.”

Littler's victory over Van den Bergh was a testament to his resilience, as he came back from 4-3 and a break down to win. Littler acknowledged that he had to elevate his game, saying, “I had to. Dimitri was behind me the whole way, but he had to fall asleep, and I had to find those other gears.” Van Gerwen, on the other hand, delivered a convincing 6-1 win over Dirk van Duijvenbode, allowing his opponent only one shot at a checkout throughout the match.

Busy few days back home and wanna say a massive thank you for all the birthday messages❤️ ready to go again for the dutch darts masters🎯💪🏼 pic.twitter.com/fdHQaicxBq

— Luke Littler (@LukeTheNuke180) January 24, 2025

With the crowd expected to be firmly behind their local hero, Van Gerwen, Littler is focused on one goal. “Obviously, I'd like to get another win and progress to the semi-final, but I think Michael will be thinking that he wants revenge, especially in his backyard,” Littler said. “It'd be a good thing to beat him in his own backyard, winning that game and guaranteeing myself a spot in the semi-final.”