James Wade reached the UK Open final for the fifth time in his career but fell short against teenage sensation Luke Littler, losing 11-7 in the title decider. The 42-year-old Englishman put together an impressive campaign, beating multiple top players, but ultimately had to bow to the defending champion in a match where Littler performed at a remarkably high level.
Wade's path to the final was marked by tense battles and standout performances. He began with a deciding-leg win over Chris Dobey, who posted a 102 average, before brushing aside Gabriel Clemens. In a showdown with world number four Michael van Gerwen, Wade was outstanding with a 105.83 average to secure his place on finals day. There, he edged past former world champion Rob Cross in the quarterfinals with a superb 107 checkout in a last leg, then produced his best display in the semifinals against Gerwyn Price, averaging well above 105 and hitting eleven maximums of 180 to win 11-8. That victory made Wade only the second player ever to reach five UK Open finals, after Phil Taylor.
After the final, Wade was sporting and realistic in his reaction. "Luke was just too good for me there in the end," he confessed. "I couldn't quite find it, but hats off to Luke, he's doing what he does and he does it quite easily!" Despite the disappointment, Wade remained proud of his tournament, noting, "I think for the last 18 months I've done alright. Luke's flying the flag. He's the best player in the world at the moment, and unfortunately I've lost to him in three finals!" He added, "I'm happy to be in the final. I hate losing more than anyone, but I lost to the better player on the day."
