Luke Littler Stages Sensational Comeback to Stun Gerwyn Price at the World Grand Prix
Luke Littler Stages Sensational Comeback to Stun Gerwyn Price at the World Grand Prix
Luke Littler produced another unforgettable performance at the BoyleSports World Grand Prix in Leicester, staging a dramatic comeback from two sets down to defeat Gerwyn Price and secure his place in the semi-finals. In a pulsating quarter-final packed with high drama, the teenage sensation fought back from the brink of elimination, sealing victory with a spectacular 152 checkout in the deciding leg at the Mattioli Arena.
The reigning World Champion appeared to be heading for a straight-sets defeat as a fired-up Price dominated the opening exchanges. The 2020 champion was ruthless early on, punishing Littler’s inconsistent finishing and racing into a commanding 2-0 lead. Yet, as so often in his short but already extraordinary career, Littler refused to bow out quietly.
With his back against the wall, the 17-year-old found another gear, rediscovering his trademark rhythm and confidence to mount a stunning turnaround. He averaged an incredible 107 in the third set to halve the deficit, before surviving three match darts in the fourth as Price began to feel the tension. A breathtaking 154 checkout kept Littler’s hopes alive, forcing a fifth and final set in front of an electrified Leicester crowd.
Momentum swung wildly in the decider. Littler surged 2-0 ahead, but Price — known for his fighting spirit — hit back with a majestic 156 finish to level things once more. The pair traded heavy scores in the final leg, both missing their opening doubles in a tense start. But when the pressure peaked, it was Littler who produced the moment of magic — a clinical 152 finish to complete one of the greatest comebacks in recent Grand Prix history.
“What a strange game that was,” Littler admitted afterwards, still processing the enormity of his win. “At two sets down, I just told myself, ‘It’s now or never.’ I had to switch on and find something. In that last leg, we were both nervous and both feeling it, but hitting that winning double was an incredible feeling.”
The Warrington wonderkid now advances to Saturday’s semi-finals, where he will face 2021 champion Jonny Clayton in another blockbuster clash.
Clayton Cruises Past Van Duijvenbode
Earlier in the evening, Jonny Clayton delivered one of his most polished performances of the tournament, brushing aside Dirk van Duijvenbode in straight sets to reach his fifth semi-final of the season. The Welshman was near-flawless on the outer ring, producing a trio of ton-plus finishes — 112, 118, and 130 — as he reeled off nine consecutive legs after losing the opener.
Van Duijvenbode, the 2020 runner-up, struggled to find consistency as Clayton took full control. Once the former Grand Prix champion settled into his rhythm, there was no way back for the Dutchman.
“I knew I had to bring something close to my best tonight,” Clayton said. “Dirk is a top player and a good mate of mine, but I had to stay focused. I’m delighted with that performance — it’s another step closer to where I want to be. The smile says it all!”
Clayton’s remarkable consistency this season has seen him reach the semi-finals of every televised ranking event — a testament to his composure and experience on the big stage. His meeting with Littler now promises to be a thrilling battle between flair and finesse.
Humphries and Noppert Complete Semi-Final Line-Up
World number one Luke Humphries continued his impressive form with a 3-1 victory over Scotland’s Cameron Menzies. The defending champion looked composed throughout, holding off a spirited mid-game surge from Menzies to advance to a third consecutive World Grand Prix semi-final. Humphries landed five 180s, averaged 91, and maintained a solid 46% success rate on his doubles to secure the win.
“I felt really good tonight,” said Humphries. “My scoring was there, maybe my doubling-in could be sharper, but I feel relaxed and in control. I’ve been working on slowing my throw down, and it’s helping me stay calm. Maybe this is the start of a new, better version of me.”
His semi-final opponent will be Danny Noppert, who also impressed in his 3-1 triumph over 2016 runner-up Gary Anderson. The Dutchman showed great composure after losing the opening set to a magnificent 158 finish from the Scot. Noppert responded strongly, taking the next three sets and sealing victory with a nerveless 92 checkout after Anderson missed a dart to force a decider.
“I’m honestly speechless,” said Noppert. “It was such a rollercoaster of a game, but I’m thrilled to be in the semi-finals again. I was nervous at times, but I kept believing. That final finish meant a lot.”
Saturday’s Semi-Finals Set for Fireworks
Saturday’s action promises a thrilling night of darts as the final four battle for a spot in Sunday’s World Grand Prix final. Humphries will open the evening against Noppert, followed by the eagerly awaited showdown between Littler and Clayton — a clash of generations and styles that could deliver another classic on the Leicester stage.
With Littler’s remarkable resilience, Clayton’s precision, Humphries’ dominance, and Noppert’s calm determination, the 2025 BoyleSports World Grand Prix is shaping up for a grandstand finish.
Luke Littler Stages Sensational Comeback to Stun Gerwyn Price at the World Grand Prix
2025 BOYLE Sports World Grand Prix
Friday October 10
4x Quarter-Finals
Danny Noppert 3-1 Gary Anderson
Jonny Clayton 3-0 Dirk van Duijvenbode
Luke Littler 3-2 Gerwyn Price
Luke Humphries 3-1 Cameron Menzies
Saturday October 11 (2000 BST)
Semi-Finals
Luke Humphries v Danny Noppert
Luke Littler v Jonny Clayton
