World champion Luke Littler's remarkable 21-match winning streak came to a crashing halt in the Bahrain Masters quarter-finals, as Gerwyn Price delivered a masterclass to triumph 6-4. In a repeat of last year's result at the same stage, Price once again proved to be Littler's kryptonite, showcasing his trademark aggression and precision to advance to the semi-finals. The victory not only ends Littler's dominant run but also sends a powerful message to the darting world that Price remains a formidable force in the sport's elite echelons.
Littler, who had been on a tear since his World Championship victory, entered the match with an aura of invincibility, having not lost since early December. His streak included wins over top players like Michael van Gerwen and Nathan Aspinall, but Price, known for his resilience under pressure, rose to the occasion. The Welshman's performance was clinical, with high checkouts and consistent scoring that kept Littler on the back foot throughout. This result marks the second consecutive year that Price has eliminated Littler in the Bahrain Masters quarter-finals, highlighting a growing rivalry that adds intrigue to future encounters.
The implications of this upset are significant for both players. For Littler, the loss serves as a reality check, reminding him that maintaining top form in darts is a relentless challenge. It may also impact his confidence heading into upcoming major tournaments, such as the Premier League and the World Matchplay. On the other hand, Price's win boosts his own morale and ranking, positioning him as a serious contender for titles in 2024. With this victory, Price has now won three of his last five meetings against Littler, suggesting he has cracked the code to defeating the young phenom.
Looking back at their history, Price and Littler have developed a compelling head-to-head dynamic. Littler's rise to stardom, culminating in his World Championship win, has been meteoric, but Price, a former world champion himself, has consistently pushed him to the limit. In 2023, Price's victory over Littler in Bahrain was a turning point that sparked debates about experience versus youth. This latest chapter reinforces Price's ability to perform on big stages, with stats showing he averaged over 100 in the match, compared to Littler's slightly lower figure, underscoring the quality of his play.
For the sport of darts, this result injects fresh drama into the narrative of the season. Littler's streak had captivated fans and media alike, drawing comparisons to legends like Phil Taylor. Its end opens the door for other players to step up, with Price leading the charge. The Bahrain Masters, though a non-ranking event, often sets the tone for the year, and Price's success here could foreshadow a strong campaign. As the tour moves forward, all eyes will be on how Littler responds and whether Price can build on this momentum to challenge for more silverware.
Source: BBC Sport Darts