Luke Littler survives Mike De Decker scare in Winmau World Masters opener

Luke Littler survived a scare from Mike De Decker in the opening round of the Winmau World Masters in Milton Keynes on Friday.

Littler battled back from the brink to deny former World Grand Prix champion De Decker in a five-set thriller, surviving a match dart in the process.

The world number one edged the opening set, before De Decker – inspired by a 121 checkout on the bull – reeled off five consecutive legs to threaten an upset.

Despite Littler missing double 15 for a nine-darter in set four, De Decker had an opportunity to triumph in style, only to wire double 11 for a match-winning 142 checkout in the following leg.

Littler capitalised on this reprieve by levelling proceedings with a 13-darter, before completing a clean sweep in the deciding set to preserve his title hopes.

“It was a tough game tonight,” admitted the 19-year-old, who landed seven 180s en route to victory.

“I didn’t really get going there. Mike deserved to win the second and third sets so I had to fight back, and that’s what I did.

“I’m glad I got over the line. I managed to find a bit of form and I got the win.”

Reigning champion Luke Humphries, meanwhile, launched his title defence at Arena MK with a 3-1 victory over Dave Chisnall.

Humphries hammered in seven 180s and averaged 104 as he recovered from losing the first set to clinch six of the next seven legs for a place in the Last 16.

“My scoring was top notch, but I need to sharpen up on my doubles,” reflected Humphries.

“It’s always great to be the defending champion in any tournament. I’ve got fond memories from last year, and I’m hoping to create more memories this year.

“It’s a cut-throat tournament. If you’re not hitting your doubles you’re going to put yourself under pressure, but I’m really pleased with the way I ended that match.”

Humphries will now face Luke Woodhouse on Saturday, after ‘Woody’ registered his highest televised average to date (108.64) in a straight sets rout of Martin Schindler.

Woodhouse landed a magnificent 136 checkout to seal the opening set, which he followed up with legs of 14, 14, 13 and 14 darts to cap off an imperious display.

“I don’t feel like I’ve shown my true game over a really consistent period,” admitted Woodhouse.

“This year I really want to push on. I’ve just shown tonight what I’m capable of, so now it’s about doing it over a long period of time and in the big TV events.”

Danny Noppert overcame Daryl Gurney in a high-quality contest, defying seven maximums from the Northern Irishman to secure a 3-1 victory with a 99 average.

The Dutchman will now take on 2024 Masters champion Stephen Bunting – who marked his return to Milton Keynes with a 99 average to see off debutant qualifier Jeffrey de Graaf 3-1.

Earlier in the evening, Rob Cross ran out a 3-1 winner against Ryan Searle, punishing a poor start from the recent World Championship semi-finalist.

Cross will now take on Northern Irish number one Josh Rock – who reeled off six consecutive legs to close out a convincing 3-1 success against Connor Scutt.

Former European Champion Ross Smith overcame Dutch debutant Jimmy van Schie by the same scoreline to set up a clash against Littler, with a clutch 150 checkout in the penultimate set proving decisive.

Winmau World Masters 2026 Day Two Results

Friday January 30

First Round

Martin Schindler 0-3 Luke Woodhouse
Ross Smith 3-1 Jimmy van Schie
Danny Noppert 3-1 Daryl Gurney
Ryan Searle 1-3 Rob Cross
Josh Rock 3-1 Connor Scutt
Luke Littler 3-2 Mike De Decker
Luke Humphries 3-1 Dave Chisnall
Stephen Bunting 3-1 Jeffrey De Graaf