James Wade makes Luke Littler comparability over Premier League Darts snub
JAMES WADE COLUMN: The Machine reached the final of the UK Open last weekend, where he was beaten by reigning world champion Luke Littler
James Wade’s column, in collaboration with OOONO – a screen-free traffic camera alert device, for safer driving
Oh my gosh – I can’t believe it! I literally spent two whole days sleeping, and I still feel exhausted. The schedule is intense, but it’s all worth it since I have already participated in the Players Championship, World Masters, and the UK Open. Each event presents a chance to earn crucial points, and I’m pleased to say I’m doing quite well so far.
There’s something about the UK Open that brings out the best in me, and I’m really proud of what I accomplished last weekend. Initially, I was anxious about the draw; I was set to face Chris Dobey, a phenomenal player who had already won the Players Championship title in Wigan with an incredible performance.
It felt like a tough start. But against all odds, I managed to win 10-9 in a heart-stopping final leg. There was no time to celebrate, though, as I had to prepare for my next challenge against Gabriel Clemens in the fifth round on Saturday.
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Thankfully, I cruised through that match with a decisive 10-2 victory, which came with no drama whatsoever, earning me a coveted matchup against the great MVG – a big shoutout to the ITV team for the draw.
After a mere three hours of rest, I was back on stage (still Saturday, mind you!) and delivered a stellar performance, defeating Michael and advancing to the quarter-finals. The draw put me up against Rob Cross, and we faced off during lunchtime. I started strong and felt in control of the match, but suddenly, for reasons I can’t quite explain, I lost my focus entirely!
Rob Cross spotted the opening and capitalised on it, bringing the match down to yet another final leg. Luckily, I’m becoming accustomed to the pressure of those critical moments, and I managed to take the win.
Next, I was set to face the formidable Gerwyn Price, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world when he’s on his game. I think I produced what might have been my best darts of the year, averaging an impressive 106.00 and being sharp on the doubles. It was a thrilling contest that extended to 11 legs, but I ultimately emerged victorious. Gerwyn put up a fierce fight, though – I could feel the intensity in the air.
Just two hours later, I found myself back on stage for the final against Luke Littler. At that point, fatigue was creeping in, and I knew I was running on empty. Despite my exhaustion, I fought through, but ultimately I lost 11-7. To be fair, Littler didn’t play at his absolute best; if he had, I could have been in for an even tougher match.
ITV pointed out that Luke Littler has been in second place in the rankings since January, with a quarter-final place at the Masters, a win at the Players Championship, and a final appearance at the UK Open. Hmmmm… maybe the PDC regrets snubbing me! No point in sulking; I’ll prove my worth on the dartboard.
Take care, Wadey.
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