When does Luke Littler play at the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts? Schedule, opponents and more

Jul 15, 2026 - 14:20

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When does Luke Littler play at the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts? Schedule, opponents and more originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Luke Littler headlines the group of 32 players heading to Blackpool for the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts.

He was the winner of the event last summer, and in his attempt to win every major on the 2026 PDC calendar, he'll look to defend his title in Blackpool to continue that historic streak.

It's one of the hardest tournaments to win, though, so let's take a look at what a route to the title looks like for him.

When does Luke Littler play at the 2026 World Matchplay of Darts? Schedule, opponents and more

Here is what to expect with Littler's schedule and potential opponents.

Route to title

* = scenario if Littler advances

Round	Opponent	Date: Time (local)
First round	Niko Springer	Sat. July 18: TBD
Second round*	Nathan Aspinall/Joe Cullen	Tues. July 21: TBD
Quarterfinals*	Rock/Woodhouse/Bunting/Zonneveld	Thurs. July 23: TBD
Semifinals*	--	Sat. July 25: TBD
Final*	--	Sun. July 26: TBD

First round

Littler plays an unseeded Niko Springer, who is making his Matchplay debut, in the first round on Saturday.

The two players have only faced off in the PDC once before, with Littler winning a PC event 6-5 last year. Both players averaged over 102 in that match, and combined for 10 180s.

MORE: 2026 World Matchplay of Darts first round predictions and previews: 6 seeds heading home early?

*Visit The Sporting News' Darts page to stay updated on all news from the 2026 World Matchplay. This article will be updated if and when Littler advances throughout the event