World Champion Luke Littler Reaches World Matchplay Semi-Finals with Record 180s

Luke Littler, the reigning world darts champion and 18-year-old sensation, has made a remarkable run at the 2025 Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool, overcoming tough challenges to reach the semi-finals. Littler survived a late surge from Andrew Gilding in a nail-biting quarter-final, winning 16-14 despite Gilding's impressive checkouts and comeback attempts, while Littler set a new record with 18 maximum 180s in a quarter-final match. Earlier, Littler staged a dramatic comeback against Jermaine Wattimena in the second round, recovering from a 7-2 deficit to win 13-11, famously roaring "I'm still here" as he rallied back to claim victory in a tiebreak. Littler's scoring consistency, averaging over 100 and his clutch finishing, have been key to his success through the tournament. He is set to face either Josh Rock or Gerwyn Price in the semi-finals, with the other semi-final contested between James Wade and Jonny Clayton. Littler's resilience and high scoring power continue to establish him as a dominant force in darts at just 18 years old.