Summary:
- Luke Littler defeated Gian van Veen 8-4 to win the inaugural Poland Darts Open and claim £35,000.
- Van Veen hit a televised nine-dart finish, but Littler’s 108 average and seven 180s secured victory.
- Littler defeated Ross Smith, Josh Rock, and Chris Dobey to reach the final while Van Veen beat Nathan Aspinall, Wessel Nijman, and Luke Humphries.
Luke Littler grabbed the first-ever Poland Darts Open title with an 8-4 win over Gian van Veen, despite the Dutchman hitting his first televised nine-dart finish in the final.
Littler, the reigning world champion, showed incredible form with seven 180s and an average just over 108. He also pocketed the £35,000 first prize.
Littler: “It’s Been a Very Good Weekend”
Van Veen had previously fallen to Littler in the World Championship final, and his perfect nine-darter in the fifth leg gave him a brief 3-2 lead. However, Littler’s response was quick, winning the next four legs to take control at 6-3.
Van Veen managed to take one more leg, but Littler closed out the match with two legs in just 28 darts.
It’s been a very good weekend for myself. I felt really good throughout the tournament. In the first three weeks of the Premier League I’ve not felt the best, so I definitely needed this one. I wanted to come here and win the title and that’s what I’ve done. Most importantly it was about playing well, getting that average up and hitting my doubles.
Quick Rundown
Littler reached the final by overcoming Chris Dobey 7-3 in the semi-finals, while Van Veen beat Luke Humphries 7-5 to secure his spot.
In the quarter-finals, Littler defeated Josh Rock 6-1, Chris Dobey beat Michael Smith 6-2, Luke Humphries won 6-1 over Stephen Bunting, and Van Veen defeated Wessel Nijman 6-2.
During round three, Littler beat Ross Smith 6-2, Josh Rock overcame Cristo Reyes 6-3, Chris Dobey edged out Luke Woodhouse 6-5, and Michael Smith defeated Jonny Clayton 6-4.
Luke Humphries won 6-1 against Boris Krcmar, Stephen Bunting beat Jermaine Wattimena 6-1, Van Veen narrowly defeated Nathan Aspinall 6-5, and Wessel Nijman beat Cameron Menzies 6-1.
The European Tour continues with the European Darts Trophy on March 13 in Göttingen, where Aspinall will attempt to defend his title.