THREE-times champion Michael van Gerwen won the first-round battle of the heavyweights at the World Matchplay as he sent rival Luke Littler packing despite being made underdog by the bookies.
Van Gerwen got the worst draw possible against the teenage prodigy from Warrington, who was unseeded going into the tournament owing to his recent arrival on the scene.
The pair have already developed a stirring rivalry in 2024, which Van Gerwen now leads 6-4 after a 10-6 win in Blackpool.
The Dutchman is one of the players who has had his nose put out of joint by Littler’s ascent to the top of the game, so he enjoyed his domination on the Winter Gardens stage.
Van Gerwen flexed his muscles, putting Littler in his place with a polished performance, averaging 101.93, with five 180s.
“We all know I am not in massive form but to actually do it gives a lot of joy,” he said.
“My own battles, it was a tough one but to win it does a lot to me. We all know it has been a tough six months but I am not playing superbly bad.
“Tonight I did the right thing for myself. The total package was there tonight.
“I can put him under pressure. When the draw comes out you know it’s the toughest draw in the tournament, but I did it.”
Despite being labelled as the underdog by bookmakers, van Gerwen’s experience and relentless determination proved decisive on the night.
“He’s not even been on the circuit long, and we’ve already played 10 times so far,” van Gerwen told SportsBoom.com.
This comment came off the back of the new Premier league format which has been criticised for pitting the world’s best players against each other way too often. This familiarity with Littler’s game proved to be a strategic advantage for the seasoned player, who capitalised on his opponent’s youthful exuberance.
“That’s why the bookies aren’t clever,” van Gerwen quipped, acknowledging the miscalculation of those who favoured Littler.
The Dutchman’s ability to handle pressure has been a hallmark of his career, as he elaborated, “I don’t feel pressure, I put enough on myself. I always demand a high standard, and when I don’t do it, I’m the first person to criticise my own game.”
Despite his own high expectations, van Gerwen recognised the significance of his performance against Littler, noting, “Today I did a lot of good things and that’s positive for a change.”
When asked if this was the most satisfying victory over the teenage sensation so far, the dutchman answered: “A 100% yes. Especially over this kind of format, at this tournament. People forget how important this tournament is after the world championships.”
Referring to his competitive spirit, van Gerwen stated, “The beast has to come out of me.” This ferocity was evident as he dismissed doubts surrounding his ability to defeat Littler, asserting, “I don’t care what anyone says, that was a massive win for me.”
Regarding Littler’s formidable reputation, van Gerwen offered advice to fellow players: “He’s not unstoppable and this is a sign for the rest of the players who are scared of him. Play your own game, instead of trying to play him.”
