Mens Matchplay
World Matchplay 2026 Predictions & Tips: Luke Littler Heads the Betting
The World Matchplay returns to Blackpool this weekend, with the Winter Gardens once again playing host to one of the most prestigious tournaments on the PDC calendar.
As the second biggest ranking event on the calendar gets underway, the sport’s biggest stars will battle for the famous Phil Taylor Trophy, with reigning champion Luke Littler looking to defend his crown against another stacked field.
Prediction
Littler rightly heads the betting and remains the player everyone must beat, while Luke Humphries, Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen all have the pedigree to lift the Phil Taylor Trophy.
However, from a value perspective, the Dutch duo stand out.
Wessel Nijman has all the tools to make a deep run, while Gian van Veen continues to develop into one of the sport’s biggest stars and looks capable of going all the way if he finds his best form.
Littler the man to beat
Luke Littler heads the outright betting at 10/11 after another remarkable year that has seen him cement his position as the dominant force in world darts.
The darting sensation arrives in Blackpool as defending champion and continues to rewrite the record books almost every time he steps on stage. With his relentless scoring power and remarkable composure, it’s easy to see why he sits so short in the market.
His closest challenger is world number one Luke Humphries at 9/2, while rising Dutch star Wessel Nijman is next in the betting at 10/1.
Former champions Gerwyn Price and Michael van Gerwen are both available at 14/1, with Gian van Veen priced at 16/1 after another impressive campaign.
Further down the market, Jonny Clayton is 28/1, while Kevin Doets, James Wade and Josh Rock can all be backed at 33/1. Veteran Gary Anderson is also available at 33/1.
Nijman looks a standout each-way play
While Littler is the deserved favourite, Wessel Nijman appeals as an excellent each-way selection at 10/1.
The Dutchman has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign, establishing himself among the sport’s elite with his heavy scoring and increasing consistency on the biggest stages.
His aggressive style is perfectly suited to the long-format matches at the Winter Gardens, and if he can navigate the early rounds, he has every chance of making a serious title challenge.
Van Veen could go deep
Another player who catches the eye is Gian van Veen at 16/1.
Van Veen has continued his rise over the past 12 months and has already shown he belongs among the very best players in the world. His scoring power and finishing have improved significantly, and he possesses the temperament required to thrive in major tournaments.
At 16/1, he looks another outstanding each-way option in what appears to be one of the deepest fields of the year.
Prices accurate at time of writing – odds subject to change.
Check out the latest darts betting odds with William Hill.
