Luke Littler defeats Beau Greaves in Grand Slam opener

Littler secures opening victory

The nineteen year old from Warrington won the match with a five two scoreline. He struck seven maximums and achieved an average of 109.97 during the contest. Littler broke Greaves in the second leg before building a three zero lead quickly. The European champion reduced the deficit to four two but Littler closed out the game.

Other results from day one

Ross Smith suffered a shock five three defeat against Rusty Jake Rodriguez in his opening match. Debutant Henry Coates held his own against Michael van Gerwen before losing the deciding leg. The expanded tournament features forty eight group stage matches played across the first three days. Luke Humphries beat Paolo Nebrida to begin his campaign while other winners included Gerwyn Price.

Littler targets World Championship

The nineteen year old stated he needed a strong start because Greaves found form at the end. He noted that his doubles percentage needs improvement despite scoring well throughout the match. Littler plans to skip the Players Championship in Minehead before heading to the World Championship. His unbeaten record stands at fifteen matches within this specific tournament series so far.