Littler Achieves Grand Slam Quarter-Finals After Dramatic Comeback

Luke Littler, the teenager who gained prominence by reaching the 2024 World Championship final, advanced to the Grand Slam of Darts quarter-finals after a remarkable comeback victory, defeating Mike de Decker 10-9. The 17-year-old found himself trailing 9-7, facing imminent elimination from the competition, but then claimed three consecutive legs to ensure his progression and set up an encounter with Jermaine Wattimena. Littler initially established a 2-0 advantage, but De Decker managed to draw level, subsequently appearing to build momentum as the contest progressed. The Belgian player extended his lead to 8-4, yet Littler mounted a comeback, including an 11-dart leg. De Decker had an opportunity to clinch the victory with a 170 checkout, but failed to hit the bullseye, allowing Littler to equalize the match at 9-9. During the decisive leg, Littler maintained his composure, successfully hitting treble 18 and double 16 to secure his win and advance to the last eight. “I don’t know if I enjoyed that. I’ve got to feel for Mike. I didn’t think I was in the game, but I know I can always switch that gear,” Littler told Sky Sports. “Early on I was at my normal pace but towards the end I was taking an extra second, and that helped me. I might have to throw like that from now on.” “I didn’t think I could overturn the deficit [in the final session]. I just can’t believe it.” Elsewhere in Wolverhampton, Wattimena also advanced, securing a narrow 10-9 victory against Dimitri van den Bergh. Gian van Veen achieved a dominant 10-2 win over Ryan Joyce, and Gary Anderson triumphed 10-6 against Stephen Bunting. Top half: Cameron Menzies v Mickey Mansell Martin Lukeman v Rob Cross Bottom half: Jermaine Wattimena v Luke Littler Gary Anderson v Gian van Veen