Darts sensation Luke Littler has set the 2026 World Matchplay alight, delivering a performance so dominant that all five of his match averages have landed in the tournament’s top 15 highest ever. This astonishing feat places him in an exclusive club alongside legends like Phil Taylor and Luke Humphries, signaling a potential shift in the sport’s hierarchy. Not to be outdone, veteran Gary Anderson also impressed, securing a spot on the all-time list with a remarkable 109.96 average in his opening game.
Luke Littler’s Unprecedented Consistency Rewrites History
The darts world is buzzing after Luke Littler’s incredible run at the 2026 World Matchplay. At just 19 years old, Littler showcased a level of consistent brilliance rarely seen in the sport. What makes his performance truly extraordinary is that every single one of his five match averages during the tournament now ranks among the top 15 highest averages ever recorded in the World Matchplay’s storied history. This isn’t just a flash in the pan; it’s a sustained display of top-tier darts that puts him in a league of his own for such a young player.
To have one match average in the top 15 is an achievement. To have all five of your tournament averages reach that benchmark demonstrates an almost unparalleled level of focus, skill, and consistency under immense pressure. It speaks volumes about his ability to maintain peak performance throughout a demanding tournament schedule.
Joining the Elite: A New Member in Darts’ Exclusive Club
Littler’s phenomenal showing means he has effectively equalled the high standards set by darts legends Phil Taylor and current world number one Luke Humphries in terms of consistent, record-breaking averages at the World Matchplay. This “exclusive club” refers to players who have not only won but dominated with statistical superiority, proving their mastery over the oche. Littler’s inclusion signifies his arrival as a true force, capable of not just competing, but statistically outperforming many of the sport’s greatest.
Gary Anderson’s Masterclass: A Veteran’s Brilliance
While much of the spotlight is on Littler, veteran Scottish star Gary Anderson also delivered a performance worthy of note. In his first-round game, Anderson posted an astounding average of 109.96. This exceptional score has also earned its place on the all-time list of highest averages at the World Matchplay. It’s a testament to Anderson’s enduring skill and ability to still produce moments of absolute brilliance, reminding everyone that the ‘Flying Scotsman’ remains a formidable competitor.
Source: Based on an article from News – Dartsnieuws.com.
