Gian van Veen produced a stunning performance of character to defeat Gary Anderson 6-3 in one of the greatest world championship semi-finals, earning a place in Saturday night's final against defending champion Luke Littler. The 23-year-old Dutchman, who recovered from a bout of dartitis to reach the pinnacle of the sport, will face the 18-year-old sensation who has taken darts by storm.
Van Veen raced into a 4-1 lead, converting 12 of his first 15 attempts at double, before Anderson fought back with a barrage of 140s and 180s to reduce the deficit. In a extraordinary fifth set, the pair exchanged 170 finishes and rapid legs, with van Veen finally sealing it in 15 darts. Anderson averaged 103 with 14 maximums, but van Veen's composure on doubles proved decisive as he closed out the match.
In contrast, Littler cruised into his third consecutive world final with a 6-1 demolition of Ryan Searle, averaging 105.4 and winning 20 of 28 legs. The 18-year-old showed barely a bead of sweat, appearing almost annoyed at failing to hit a nine-dart finish. His relentless scoring and clinical finishing have made him the clear favourite.
The final pits two contrasting talents: Littler, the swaggering natural with a smooth action and unwavering self-belief, against van Veen, the shy, softly-spoken aviation engineering graduate who overcame the throwing disorder dartitis. Their paths first crossed in the 2023 World Youth Championship final, which both qualified for as teenagers in Milton Keynes.
Van Veen, the best doubles hitter on tour by almost three percentage points, faces the ultimate test against Littler's scoring power and mental freshness. While Littler has become the sport's dominant force, van Veen's remarkable journey suggests he will not be overawed on the biggest stage.
