Defending champion Luke Littler crashed out of the World Grand Prix after suffering a shock first-round defeat to Luke Woodhouse.
The back-to-back world champion had been in contention to complete an unprecedented clean sweep of TV titles in 2026 prior to last week's quarter-final loss to Jonny Clayton at the World Series of Darts Finals.
But he failed to bounce back from the defeat as Luke Woodhouse came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory in the unique 'double in' event.
Littler averaged just 82.41 during a match where he looked far from his best and Woodhouse was able to capitalise to defeat last year's winner.
Woodhouse will come up against Nathan Aspinall in his second round match, with the 2022 runner-up edging past Kevin Doets in a 2-1 victory.
The failure to defend his World Grand Prix title will be a concern to Littler after a year which he has dominated for so long.
The 19-year-old has openly admitted on more than one occasion that he has struggled with the booing he has experienced at certain events.
Littler has even hinted at stepping away from the sport, but his thirst for titles is what is continuing to motivate him.
With upcoming events including the European Championship and the Grand Slam, Littler will be looking to get his hands on more silverware as he builds towards the World Darts Championship.
Littler remains the odds-on favourite to win the world title for a third successive year and some time away from the oche over the next few days could stand him in good stead.
