Wright despite averaging 101 only just edged over the line and missed seven match darts before he finally won.
Despite that though he looked good in stages and will take confidence in gaining a win to start the tournament off.
As per the round robin format, Whitlock will now face the other loser from earlier on today Rob Cross later.
Click here for more information on the tournament.
Afternoon session schedule
Rob Cross (91.79) 8-10 (96.46) Mensur Suljovic (B)
Peter Wright (101.22) 10-7 (96.41) Simon Whitlock (B)
Gary Anderson v Daryl Gurney (A)
Michael van Gerwen v Dave Chisnall (A)
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