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LUKE LITTLER finally achieved a breakthrough at his challenging event by overcoming his oche adversary.
The reigning world champion triumphed over Gian van Veen 2-0 in the first round of the World Grand Prix in Leicester.
Luke Littler dominated Gian Van Veen despite the Dutchman’s impressive average.
This marked his first victory at this double-start tournament, having been eliminated in the opening round last year in the East Midlands.
Additionally, it ended a streak of three consecutive defeats to the 23-year-old tall Dutch player.
This victory came just a day after Littler announced his split from long-term manager Martin Foulds after five years of collaboration.
The Nuke achieved a remarkable 151 checkout in the fourth leg and clinched the first set in just six minutes with an 86 finish, celebrating by raising his fists in the air.
The 18-year-old, who prefers to start legs with double tops and double 10s, secured his win with an impressive 144 checkout.
Van Veen, who averaged 106.47 despite the loss, simply raised his hands, shook his head, and shrugged his shoulders, as if to express his thoughts on what more he could have done against such quality play.
Littler, who averaged 105.58 across eight legs, stated: “I’m extremely pleased. I don’t think I could have performed much better.
“Everything felt good. I missed a few doubles, but overall it was a solid performance.
“Gian contributed to an excellent game.
“We challenged each other throughout and played our best darts. Winning my first game here is incredible.
“I played better than I did last time. I mentioned in my pre-game interview that I would be much more intense – and I demonstrated that.”
In other news, Damon Heta's quest for his first win at this unique darts event continues, as he suffered his fifth consecutive first-round loss.
The Australian, ranked 11th in the competition, fell 2-1 to unseeded Luke Woodhouse, who averaged only 80.98 and began the final leg with SEVEN missed darts at a double.
Woodhouse will now face Welsh player Jonny Clayton, who ended a streak of six consecutive defeats to Andrew Gilding by advancing 2-0 to the second round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Luke Littler's performance like in the first round?
Luke Littler performed exceptionally well, achieving a remarkable 151 checkout and securing an impressive 144 checkout to win the match against Gian van Veen.
How did Damon Heta fare in the tournament?
Damon Heta lost in the first round for the fifth consecutive year, falling 2-1 to unseeded Luke Woodhouse.
