Key Highlights
- The fourth round of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship is underway at Alexandra Palace.
- Krzysztof Ratajski is currently leading against Luke Woodhouse with a high average and a max score.
- Luke Littler, defending champion, shared insights on handling crowd pressure during his match.
Live Updates from Alexandra Palace
The fourth round of the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship has kicked off at Alexandra Palace, with a thrilling battle between Luke Woodhouse and Krzysztof Ratajski. The match is shaping up to be an intense contest as both players look to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Woodhouse Takes Early Lead
Krzysztof Ratajski, currently averaging 106 with a max score, has put himself in a commanding position against Luke Woodhouse. The Polish player’s precision is evident as he hits two treble 19s to leave 132 on the board, while Woodhouse remains at 175.
Despite neither making significant dents in their scores, Woodhouse managed to land a crucial treble for an attempt at double 18 but missed. Ratajski then broke through again to add more pressure on his opponent with a stunning setup leaving just 32. However, he failed to capitalize on the opportunity, missing all three attempts at the double.
Pressure Mounts as Tension Builds
The match remains tightly contested, with Woodhouse hitting the first 180 of the day and promising more. He aimed for a high score by taking out 170 but left his opponent Krzysztof Ratajski in a difficult position with just 36 points to clear.
Ratajski responded with a precise double 18 at his second attempt, while Woodhouse left 113. The Polish player continued to pile the pressure by setting up an impressive shot leaving only 29 points. Although Ratajski missed all three attempts at the double again, he still managed to take the opening leg.
Defending Champion’s Reflections
The defending champion Luke Littler discussed his match against Rob Cross and how he handled a hostile crowd. In an interview after his victory, Littler expressed that he may have “lost” his head when reacting to booing from the audience.
“I think I lost (my head), it’s still on there,” said Littler. “Two years ago, I would have started throwing my darts left-handed, but that is how much I have grown and how much I have matured.”
Littler also shared his thoughts on dealing with such situations in the future, stating: “People might say I have not matured, but try to be in my position. I can still learn a lot.
I can learn how to deal with the crowd, not let as much emotion out, just keep it all in me until that final dart.”
Despite facing criticism from fans, Littler remained focused and committed: “The fans did what they did, I reacted like any other player would, I think I might have reacted a bit too early on after the first set and when I came on for the second set I said to myself: ‘Yeah, you’ve reacted too early here’. I just had to get on with the job.”
Looking Ahead
The final afternoon session of 2025 is packed with exciting matches. With six games scheduled over the course of an eventful day, fans are in for a treat.
“We’re under way for day 17 at the Ally Pally and it’s Luke Woodhouse with the darts in this opening set,” commented one of the live texters. “Calling a 9 darter today folks, It’s gonna happen in the Josh Rock, or Gary Anderson game!”
As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on these players as they fight for their place in the quarter-finals. Stay tuned for more updates from Alexandra Palace.
Remember to get in touch if you fancy a shot at any predictions or want to share your thoughts about the World Championship this year!
The full schedule is as follows:
- Afternoon session (12:30 GMT)
- Evening session (19:00 GMT)
What awaits us for the final afternoon session of 2025? Let’s find out together!
