Luke Littler Defends Title at PDC World Championship Amid Prize Money Debate
Luke Littler successfully defended his title at the PDC World Championship, defeating Darius Labanauskas 3-0 on the opening night at Alexandra Palace. The tournament this year featured a historic first, with a new £1 million winner's prize on offer.
Labanauskas averaged 95 during the match and pushed Littler to deciding legs in two of the three sets, ultimately earning £15,000 for his first-round exit. The championship field also expanded from 96 to 128 players, with plans for next year’s event to move from the West Hall to the Great Hall to accommodate increased demand.
Arno Merk earned at least £25,000 after his victory over Kim Huybrechts on the first night, which he described as a catalyst to turning professional. However, some players, including Michael van Gerwen, criticized the distribution of prize money, suggesting that the large earnings by the world champion might create a disconnect from other tournaments.
Tickets for the championship sold out in about 12 minutes, underscoring the event’s enduring popularity despite the changes in prize money and expanded player field.
