Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts phenomenon, delivered a dazzling performance to claim his first World Grand Prix title in Leicester, overpowering defending champion Luke Humphries with a commanding 6-1 victory. The final, played on October 12, 2025, was billed as a clash of titans, with both players bringing their A-game to the oche. But it was Littler—nicknamed "The Nuke"—who stole the show, reinforcing his meteoric rise in the world of darts with a display that left fans and pundits in awe.
For Humphries, this marked his third straight Grand Prix final appearance, and he entered the match as the reigning champion after his 2023 triumph. The pair shared a storied rivalry, having met in four previous PDC major finals, with Humphries holding a 3-1 edge in those encounters. Yet, the narrative shifted dramatically in Leicester as Littler, making his debut in the Grand Prix final and chasing his seventh major title, seized the moment with nerves of steel and relentless scoring.
The opening set set the tone for a high-octane contest. Littler wasted no time, breaking Humphries early with a 12-dart leg, including a blistering 300 scored from his first six darts. The crowd erupted in a chorus of "one Luke Littler" as the young star powered ahead. Humphries, known for his cool composure and nicknamed "Cool Hand," clawed back with a break of throw, but Littler steadied himself, pinning double five to clinch the first set 1-0.
As the match progressed, both players traded heavy blows. In the second set, Humphries showcased his class, landing a 49 checkout for an 11-dart leg to level the score. But Littler responded with characteristic flair, firing in a 180 and finishing with a clinical double 20 to regain control. The tension was palpable, with each leg swinging on missed doubles and high-pressure finishes.
The third set nearly produced darts history. Littler opened with a 160, followed by a 180 to leave a 161 finish. He came agonizingly close to a nine-darter—one of the sport's rarest feats—missing the bullseye by a whisker. Humphries, recognizing the brilliance, hugged Littler in a display of sportsmanship before The Nuke closed out the leg with another hold of throw. Littler then unleashed a timely 177 to set up a 64 finish, landing double 20 to secure a 2-0 set lead. As he let out a roar of triumph, the momentum was firmly in his corner.
Sky Sports analysts marveled at Littler's composure and explosive scoring. "It sounds ridiculous to say, but all Luke Littler needs to do now is keep holding his throw now he's got this two-set lead," said a former World Matchplay finalist. The sense of inevitability grew as Littler continued to pile on the pressure, while Humphries struggled to capitalize on his opportunities, particularly with his doubling in.
Humphries, reflecting on the match, admitted, "It’s hard work, he is clinical. In the first three sets I missed too many darts to get in. At four-nil down I just wanted to give the fans something to watch. There is no way I am going to let all these fans come here and lose six-nil. I was desperate to win more sets to give them more darts. Unfortunately, the doubling in was just not good enough and I need to work at that or he will just keep winning. It is not like you are scared to play him, he is just so good."
Indeed, Littler's relentless assault left little room for error. He not only showcased his scoring prowess but also demonstrated maturity beyond his years, refusing to let the occasion faze him. With every leg, he seemed to add another highlight to his ever-growing list of achievements.
The final scoreline—6-1 in favor of Littler—reflected the dominance of his performance. For his efforts, The Nuke took home a winner's cheque of £120,000, while Humphries earned £60,000 as the runner-up. Littler's victory also bolstered his position in the PDC Order of Merit, putting him on the cusp of reaching the coveted world number one spot.
What makes Littler's triumph even more remarkable is the context of his career trajectory. Less than two years ago, he made his professional tour debut, and since then, he's rocketed to second in the world rankings and claimed the world championship title. His impact on darts has been transformative, captivating fans with his fearless approach and electrifying style.
But Littler isn't resting on his laurels. Speaking to Sky Sports immediately after his win, he revealed, "I’ll go to the World Youth tomorrow and just have a bit of fun, see everyone. I don’t think anyone is going to be my friend tomorrow, but it’s only 20 minutes up the road, so I’ll try my best!" The World Youth Championship in Wigan, just 15 miles from his hometown of Warrington, awaits him the very next day. Littler, ever the competitor, must sign in by 11am to participate, underscoring his commitment to the sport and his unrelenting drive.
Looking ahead, the darts calendar shows no signs of slowing down. The next PDC major, the Grand Slam of Darts, is set for Wolverhampton in the second week of November. Littler enters as the defending champion, having captured the 2024 title. Meanwhile, both Humphries and Michael van Gerwen—surprise group stage exits in the previous edition—will be eager for redemption. The race for supremacy in the PDC Order of Merit is heating up, and with Littler closing in on the No. 1 spot, the stakes couldn't be higher.
As the dust settles on a memorable night in Leicester, the darts world is left to marvel at the rapid ascent of Luke Littler. At just 18, his list of honors continues to grow, and his performances are rewriting the sport's record books. For now, fans can only wonder: just where will The Nuke's journey take him next?
With the World Youth Championship and the Grand Slam of Darts on the horizon, all eyes remain fixed on Littler as he seeks to further cement his legacy in the game. One thing's for sure—darts has found its newest superstar, and the story is only just beginning.
