Luke Littler will take on Gian van Veen in Saturday's world championship final after both secured contrasting semi-final victories on Friday night.
The defending champion and world number one lost the first set but then won six in a row to defeat Ryan Searle 6-1, reaching his third final in as many appearances. Littler insisted his focus is on retaining the title rather than the record £1m prize. “It’s a massive prize, but it’s the trophy on the stage, it’s not the money,” he said. “Ever since the Grand Slam I have just said I want to go back-to-back.”
Van Veen produced a stunning performance to beat two-time champion Gary Anderson 6-3 in a thrilling contest that finished just before 11pm. The Dutchman led 4-1 before Anderson fought back, but Van Veen held his nerve to secure his first appearance in the final. Both players averaged over 102, hit a 170 checkout, and Anderson struck more 180s, but Van Veen’s finishing proved decisive.
Van Veen, who had lost his opening match on two previous visits to Alexandra Palace, overcame a battle with dartitis to reach the final. “Three or four years ago I was struggling with dartitis, crying after games – look at me now!” he said. “My parents used to drive me all around the Netherlands to play … it’s all been worth it. I never thought this would happen – it’s not a dream come true, I never even dreamed about it!”
The final will see Littler looking to become a back-to-back champion, while Van Veen aims to cap a remarkable turnaround. The match promises to be an all-timer at Alexandra Palace.
