Luke Littler will face Gian van Veen in Saturday’s world championship final following two contrasting semi-final victories at Alexandra Palace on Friday.
The defending champion, Littler, cruised past Ryan Searle 6-1, winning six straight sets after dropping the first. The world number one, eyeing a third final in three appearances, insisted his focus is on retaining the trophy 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. So hopefully I can lift the trophy again and think about the money after.”
Van Veen, meanwhile, prevailed in a classic against two-time champion Gary Anderson, winning 6-3 in a see-saw match that finished just before 11pm. The Dutchman led 4-1 before Anderson fought back, but Van Veen held his nerve to clinch a first final appearance. Both men averaged over 102, hit a 170 checkout, and Anderson landed more 180s, but Van Veen’s finishing proved decisive, with a 55% checkout rate.
An emotional Van Veen reflected on his journey, having struggled with dartitis in the past. “I am so happy,” he said. “Winning this game … 10 years ago or five years ago, I was struggling playing darts. I was crying at the table and look at me four years later. It’s all been worth it.” He added of the crowd support for Anderson: “The crowd was a bit against me, but it’s fair play because Gary is so fantastic.”
The final on Saturday night promises an all-timer between two players in scintillating form. Littler is seeking back-to-back titles, while Van Veen bids for his maiden world crown after losing his opening match in two previous visits to Ally Pally.
