The World Championship semi-final delivered a true clash of generations, as 23-year-old rising star Gian van Veen faced darts legend Gary Anderson. While the 55-year-old Scot, a two-time world champion in 2015 and 2016, brought immense experience, it was the youthful momentum of the Dutchman that proved decisive.Anderson claimed the opening set, but Van Veen quickly turned the match around to take a 2–1 lead.

Luke Littler defeated Ryan Searle 6–1 in convincing fashion, once again underlining why he is considered one of the tournament’s top contenders. The players were given a sporting reception during their walk-on, and the respectful atmosphere continued throughout the match.

Michael van Gerwen offered no excuses following his exit in the Last 16. While the Dutchman suggested that he wasn't necessarily the inferior player, he admitted that his frequent mistakes proved fatal."To be honest, I don't think I was the weaker player, but Gary was sharper in the key moments.

While Gary Anderson has been back to his best for some time, his World Championship campaign hasn't quite gone according to plan—even if the results suggest otherwise.

Following Luke Littler’s hard-fought victory to reach the quarterfinals, several of his most formidable rivals also secured their spots in the final eight on Tuesday. Gian van Veen, a popular pick to lift the trophy at Alexandra Palace, demonstrated his championship potential by outclassing 20-year-old Charlie Manby in a dominant 4-1 performance.