2026 World Matchplay of Darts final prediction and preview: Can Price upset Littler?

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Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price are the two players who remain in Blackpool after over a week's worth of matches in the 2026 World Matchplay.

Littler is having one of the greatest tournament campaigns we have ever seen, and he's one win away from becoming the fourth player to win the event two or more times.

It seems inevitable, but Price will have his say before those results become anywhere near official.

2026 World Matchplay of Darts final prediction

Here are my predictions for the final.

MORE: 2026 World Matchplay of Darts: Draw, schedule, prize money and format explained

(1) Luke Littler vs. (7) Gerwyn Price

Winner: Luke Littler, 18-13

Whether or not Price wins this match, this past week in Blackpool has been a success for him. He's guaranteed to be seeded #4 in the world and the new Welsh #1, no matter what happens in this final.

He nearly was eliminated from the event in the first round, but has gotten better from round to round to end up in the final (his first ranked major final in nearly three years).

Unfortunately for him, he'll have to face Littler in the final, who has yet to average lower than 109.50 in any of his four matches so far.

It would take a slower day from Littler's end to give Price a chance, but Price, out of all players, can pressure him a decent amount.

Even though Littler has won most of their recent matches, especially ones at majors, Price has pushed him farther than any player has consistently, outside of Luke Humphries.

However, a great day from Price still may not be enough, but you'd expect to see a hungry Price be able to at least get 10+ legs against Littler.

We may see Price be even more animated in this match to try and get any edge or momentum going in his direction.

As long as Price shows up playing his part, we should get to see a quality match, as both players feed off each other well, in terms of pace and scoring power.