Luke Littler suffered a stunning defeat in the first round of the World Grand Prix as he was knocked out by Rob Cross. Despite being the favourite going into the match, the seventeen-year-old darts prodigy fell short of expectations, only managing to average just over 94 and hitting six 180s. Cross, the 2018 world champion, seized the opportunity and clinched a 2-1 victory with an impressive 80% success rate on finishing doubles in the prestigious tournament in Leicester.
Following his unexpected win, Cross expressed his delight at overcoming his past struggles in the tournament. Up next, Cross will face Martin Schindler, who secured a 2-0 win against former finalist Brendan Dolan. Meanwhile, defending champion Luke Humphries narrowly avoided an early exit in his opening game against Stephen Bunting. After coming back from a set down and a 2-0 deficit in the second set, Humphries displayed champion spirit by winning three consecutive legs to force a decider, eventually triumphing 2-1.
Humphries emphasised the importance of perseverance in tough matches, acknowledging Bunting’s strong performance. He is set to face Ricardo Pietreczko in the last 16. Pietreczko himself claimed a hard-fought 2-1 victory over five-time world champion Raymond van Barneveld. In other matches, Nathan Aspinall executed a crucial double three in the final leg to defeat Ryan Searle 2-1, while Jonny Clayton, Ryan Joyce, and Ross Smith secured wins in their respective encounters.
The World Grand Prix continues to deliver thrilling action as top players face off in intense battles. The tournament promises more surprises and fierce competition as the remaining rounds unfold. Fans can expect more excitement and drama as the world’s best darts players compete for glory and the prestigious title.