Michael van Gerwen triumphed over Chris Dobey with a dominant 6-1 victory at Alexandra Palace, securing his spot in the final of the World Darts Championship on January 2, 2025. This marks the seventh time the Dutchman has reached the final of the prestigious tournament, the first since his defeat last year. Van Gerwen’s precision was apparent from the start, as he wrapped up the opening set, taking just six minutes to do so. His first throw of 180 was just the beginning of what would prove to be a decisive performance.
Dobey managed to break Van Gerwen's throw early in the second set, displaying some competitive spirit. Unfortunately for him, the advantage quickly evaporated, leading to missed opportunities. Notably, Dobey struggled with accuracy on doubles, missing three darts at the finish, allowing Van Gerwen to regain control and seize the set.
While Dobey did manage to take the third set—showcasing some commendable darts and even pulling off a stunning 170 finish—a persistence of high-level play from Van Gerwen meant the Englishman could not maintain momentum. Van Gerwen then reasserted his dominance, establishing a two-set lead and performing incredibly well, with one moment particularly standing out: he finished off the sixth set with a 158 checkout, emboldening the notion he was on his A-game.
Despite some moments of brilliance showing through from Dobey, particularly his 180s and spirited attempts, Van Gerwen proved to be too much to handle. The final score was 6-1, ending Dobey's hopes at his first semi-final.
Meanwhile, Luke Littler had his own impressive showing, overwhelming Stephen Bunting with the same 6-1 margin. The 17-year-old prodigy seemed determined throughout the match, establishing command with ruthlessness reflected by his high average scores. Littler surged to an early 4-0 set lead before Bunting managed to pull one set back. By the sixth set, Littler was showcasing his ability to finish, ending it on another checkout of 170, which was only the fifth of the tournament. This victory not only secured his place for his second consecutive final but solidified him as the favorite for the title.
Both players have expressed excitement leading up to their final showdown, with Van Gerwen emphasizing strategy and focus as his keys to success: "I can be happy with the performance. Of course I wasn't playing as explosive as I was in the last game, but I was efficient," Van Gerwen stated post-match. He reflected on the title, reminding himself, "we're not even close yet. We're still so far away. That’s what you have to keep telling yourself. I want to keep battling with everything I've got." Such sentiments reveal Van Gerwen’s desire to reclaim glory after years since his last championship win.
Conversely, Littler expressed anticipation, stating, "If we both turn up like we did tonight, [the final] is going to be really good." He noted the importance of staying present, focusing on each match throughout the tournament to reach this point. He sees this final as another significant opportunity, not just for redemption after last year's runner-up finish but also to establish his own legacy.
With the experience of Van Gerwen clashing against the youthful exuberance of Littler, the stage is set for what promises to be one of the most exciting finals yet. Van Gerwen, seeking his fourth title, will face Littler who is hot on the heels of his first triumph. An epic battle between the present and future of darts awaits, as both players head closer to their ambitions and dreams.
Fans eagerly await the final, hoping for fireworks as the two contenders prepare to create darting history at the World Darts Championship.