Dimitri Van den Bergh's Epic Nine-Darter Shocks Van Gerwen

An Unforgettable Night at the World Masters

In a breathtaking display of precision and skill, Dimitri Van den Bergh executed a stunning nine-dart finish, eliminating three-time world champion Michael Van Gerwen from the World Masters tournament. The atmosphere in Milton Keynes was electric as Van den Bergh, trailing 3-2, found his rhythm in the crucial sixth set.

This incredible finishing sequence not only highlighted Van den Bergh's talent but also sent shockwaves through the audience, who erupted in cheers as he clinched the set and then followed it up with another victorious round. Van Gerwen struggled in this leg, frustratingly missing two attempts at an 87 checkout, including a miscalculation that left him with a busted score.

"I think it was written in the sky for once," stated Van den Bergh after achieving the 4-3 triumph, his second win over the esteemed Dutch player. The UK Open champion is now set to face Nathan Aspinall in the upcoming quarter-finals on Sunday.

Rising Stars Shining Bright

In another remarkable match, Luke Littler, who recently turned 18, dominated James Wade with a commanding 4-0 victory. This young prodigy had made headlines earlier in January by becoming the youngest world champion at just 17 years old. Littler showcased exceptional form, averaging 105.47 while hitting four 180s, leaving Wade with no chance for a double and forcing him to applaud Littler's extraordinary performance.

"James can play very well but I'm thankful he didn't turn up," remarked Littler with a touch of humor. He will meet Jonny Clayton in Sunday’s quarter-finals after Clayton staged a dramatic comeback to edge past Ryan Searle with a final score of 4-3.

The defending champion, Stephen Bunting, also made headlines by defeating two-time world champion Peter Wright 4-2, setting the stage for an exciting matchup against Danny Noppert in the last eight. Meanwhile, Luke Humphries, the reigning world champion, cruised past Josh Rock with a clean 4-0 sweep and prepares to face Damon Heta, who triumphed in a nail-biting 4-3 encounter against Gerwyn Price.