Defending world champion Luke Littler has been handed a psychological blow just a week before his title defence begins, after being beaten in a final by rival Michael van Gerwen.
Dutch Master Triumphs in Tampere
Michael van Gerwen sealed an 8-6 victory over Luke Littler in the final of the International Darts Cup in Tampere, Finland. The exhibition event, played in front of 7,500 fans, carries added significance due to its timing on the eve of the sport's biggest tournament.
The 2026 PDC World Darts Championship commences next Thursday, December 11th. Van Gerwen will face Japan's Mitsuhiko Tatsunami in his opening round match, while Littler begins his campaign to retain the Sid Waddell Trophy.
Van Gerwen's Determined Comeback Bid
The Dutchman, a three-time world champion, is using the win as a springboard to put a difficult year behind him. He is targeting a landmark fourth world title next month at Alexandra Palace.
"It's been a tough year, probably my worst year ever," Van Gerwen admitted. "There have been a lot of changes in my personal life. You need to try and adjust, but that's not always easy."
He acknowledged the current form of his rivals, stating: "The reality is I'm not the favourite this year. Luke and Luke are playing better than me at the moment, so I have to step up. It's as simple as that." He added that the unique pressure of the World Championship, with its huge crowds and media attention, makes it a different challenge, and one where he prefers to be the chaser rather than the hunted.
Littler's Historic Defence Challenge
For world number one Luke Littler, the immediate goal is to navigate his first-round match, but his ultimate aim is historic. He is attempting to become the first player in a decade to successfully defend the PDC World Darts Championship.
Only three players have ever retained the title at Ally Pally: Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis, and Gary Anderson, with the Scot being the last to achieve the feat in 2015 and 2016.
"Defending is different," Littler said. "I have won the last few majors and now the big one is around the corner. Gary Anderson was the last person to go back-to-back and that was 10 years ago. I'll try to go back-to-back."
The teenager, who became the youngest ever world champion last year, believes he is now better equipped for the tournament's pressures. "If there is nerves I will know how to cope, I didn't have a clue last year, but this year I know what to expect," he concluded.
What Happens Next?
All eyes now turn to Alexandra Palace for the start of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship. The tournament promises high drama as Littler begins his title defence and Van Gerwen seeks to reclaim the crown after a turbulent year, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster clash later in the competition.
