Blackpool Showdown Delivers Night of High-Stakes Drama

Luke Littler (102.4 average) defied a seven-leg deficit to secure a 13-11 victory against Dutch challenger Jermaine Wattimena in a World Matchplay classic at the Winter Gardens. The world champion's resilience shone through as he:

• Overcame early 7-2 deficit with six-leg streak
• Landed 8 maximum 180s under pressure
• Sealed victory with dramatic 96 checkout

"When I pointed to the star on my shirt, I'm reminding myself - and everyone - why I wear it," Littler told Sky Sports post-match. "These are the moments world champions live for."

Van Gerwen's Shock Exit

Three-time champion Michael van Gerwen (99.8 average) suffered a stunning 11-10 defeat to Northern Ireland's Josh Rock (101.2 average) in a match featuring:

• 14 maximum 180s combined
• Crucial 152 checkout from Rock (15th leg)
• 62% checkout efficiency under pressure

"My heart was pounding like a drum machine out there," admitted Rock after his career-defining win. "To beat MVG on this stage... this changes everything."

Other Quarterfinal Qualifiers

• Gerwyn Price dominated Chris Dobey 11-3 with:
  • 108.7 match average
  • 146 checkout highlight
  • 8 maximum 180s
• Andrew Gilding continued his Blackpool surge with 11-5 win over Dirk van Duijvenbode

Tournament Outlook

The Winter Gardens crowd witnessed 47 maximum 180s across Tuesday's sessions, maintaining the tournament's 180-per-leg record pace.