Luke Littler defeated his friend Nathan Aspinall to secure the final place in the semi-finals of the PDC World Darts Championship.
The 17-year-old, who narrowly missed out on the title last year, produced an impressive performance, winning 5-2.
Littler, widely viewed as favorite to win the tournament, will now face Stephen Ponting in the semi-finals. Ponting earned his place by defeating two-time champion Peter Wright by the same scoreline 5-2.
The second semi-final on Thursday will see three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen take on Chris Dobbie.
Letellier's dominance continues
After showing some nerves in the previous rounds, fourth-seeded Littler started strong, taking the first set in just four minutes and averaging 118 points.
Despite Aspinall's efforts to stay in the game – which is remarkable considering his struggles with elbow and wrist injuries this year – he was unable to keep up with Littler.
Littler hit 15 180s during the match on his way to becoming the youngest winner of the tournament ever. The current record holder, Michael van Gerwen, was 24 years and nine months old when he claimed his first title in 2014.
Some performance from Luke Littler đź’Ş pic.twitter.com/84H0ASE10A
— Siham PDC (@OfficialPDC) January 1, 2025
Bunting defeats Wright
Stephen Ponting produced an exceptional performance against Peter Wright to secure his place in the semi-finals.
Wright, a two-time world champion in 2020 and 2022, entered the match after his strong victory over defending champion Luke Humphries.
However, Ponting looked unstoppable, taking a 4-0 lead before Wright managed to claw back two sets with 133 not out.
Ponting concluded the match with an average of 95 and led the crowd in a jubilant chant of “Let's go mental Ponting” after his win.
Reflecting on his win, Ponting said: “In the back room I felt very nervous, on edge. “Peter Wright is a crowd favourite, a great teammate of mine, and he's my son's favorite player, so I feel sorry for my son.”
A win would move Ponting up to No. 5 in the world after the tournament.
The date for the second semi-final has been set…
Smaller 🆚 bunting
Who will reach the final? pic.twitter.com/PqX90G48MS
— Siham PDC (@OfficialPDC) January 1, 2025
Van Gerwen survives Reds
Michael van Gerwen emerged victorious in a thrilling quarter-final clash against Callan Reds, winning 5-3.
The Dutch star, seeking his first world title since 2019, succeeded in overcoming the Reds in a high-quality encounter marked by exceptional goals from both players.
The Reds, who scored 17 180s and averaged 103, pushed Van Gerwen throughout the match. However, Van Gerwen performed under pressure, finishing the match averaging 103 points.
“Games like this give you a lot of happiness,” Van Gerwen said. “He gave everything and constantly pressured me. My level is in a good place, but it doesn’t mean anything yet.”
One of the truly great quarter-final matches at Alexandra Palace… 🙌 pic.twitter.com/PeUAlgvXZc
— Siham PDC (@OfficialPDC) January 1, 2025
Dobey completes the semifinal lineup
Chris Dobbie came back from two sets down to defeat Gerwyn Price 5-3 and advance to his first semi-final.
Despite the slow start, Dube turned the match around by winning in four straight sets.
Although he missed five darts to secure a 5-2 win, Dube maintained his composure to seal the match with a stunning double-double finish.
“I have never been so nervous to win the double as I did today,” Dube said. “I'm glad I pulled it off and got the win.”
The first semi-final match has been decided… 🙌
Michael van Gerwen will face Chris Dobie for a place in the final. pic.twitter.com/p0F05nHpeX
— Siham PDC (@OfficialPDC) January 1, 2025
