Luke Littler Seeks Historic Streak at 2026 World Matchplay of Darts

Luke Littler is set to take on the best of the best at the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts, seeking to defend his title and continue his historic winning streak.

What's at stake for Luke Littler?

Luke Littler headlines the group of 32 players heading to Blackpool for the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts. He was the winner of the event last summer, and in his attempt to win every major on the 2026 PDC calendar, he'll look to defend his title in Blackpool to continue that historic streak.

A tough road ahead

It's one of the hardest tournaments to win, though, so let's take a look at what a route to the title looks like for him. Luke Littler will face an unseeded Niko Springer, who is making his Matchplay debut, in the first round on Saturday. The two players have only faced off in the PDC once before, with Littler winning a PC event 6-5 last year. Both players averaged over 102 in that match, and combined for 10 180s.

First-round showdown

Littler plays Niko Springer in the first round on Saturday. The two players have only faced off in the PDC once before, with Littler winning a PC event 6-5 last year. Both players averaged over 102 in that match, and combined for 10 180s.

What comes next?

The 2026 World Matchplay of Darts is set to take place in Blackpool, with Luke Littler looking to defend his title. The event is one of the hardest tournaments to win, but Littler is confident in his abilities. He'll face an unseeded Niko Springer in the first round on Saturday, and will look to continue his historic winning streak.

Visit The Sporting News' Darts page to stay updated on all news from the 2026 World Matchplay.

This article will be updated if and when Luke Littler advances throughout the event.