Luke Littler, the 17-year-old darts sensation known as the 'Wonder Boy', is poised to make history tonight as he competes for the World Championship title at the prestigious Alexandra Palace. Since becoming the youngest finalist last year at just 16 years old, Littler has captured the public's imagination, even garnering more online searches than King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
This evening, Littler faces off against the legendary Dutch player, Michael Van Gerwen, who is aiming for his fourth world title. The stakes are high, as victory would not only solidify Littler's status as a leading figure in the darts world but also make him the youngest champion ever. "I play with absolute confidence, with freedom," Littler stated, reflecting on his mindset goinginto the final.
Since his breathtaking debut on the world stage, where he finished as runner-up to world champion Luke Humphries, Littler's fame has skyrocketed. The final of the 2024 championship attracted 3.71 million viewers, making it one of the most-watched sports events outside of football. Alongside his professional accolades, he has also made appearances on talk shows, mingling with Hollywood stars and sporting legends. Littler has already secured ten titles this year and sits fourth on the world rankings.
"I get up, play on the Xbox, eat something, play at the board, go to bed, and that's it," he shared during an interview with the BBC, outlining the simplicity behind his focused routine. Hailing from Warrington, England, Littler started his darts career at just 18 months old and set records both at junior levels and now as he competes against seasoned professionals.
But Littler's personal life has seen its share of challenges. Fans have been curious about his relationship status, especially after his high-profile breakup with his longtime girlfriend, Eloise Milburn, after ten months of dating. The relationship reportedly struggled under the pressures of Littler's busy tournament schedule, causing significant strain. Sources have indicated the split was abrupt, with Littler informing Milburn via text after they had spoken the night before.
"They had spoken the night before and then he just texted her the next day to say it was over," revealed a friend to the Sun, underscoring the suddenness of the breakup. Despite the tensions, Littler defended Milburn on social media, calling for fans to stop directing hate toward her. "Each person needs to stop sending hate to Eloise and saying it is her fault," he clarified, aiming to maintain their relationship as friends even amid personal upheaval.
While there have been whispers about Littler possibly dating someone new, no one has stepped publicly forward to support him at this year’s championship. Rumors swirled recently when, during a live gaming stream, a female voice was heard saying, "I will try to sleep because I am so tired," prompting speculation about his current romantic situation. Littler, visibly annoyed, reacted on stream, stating, "Get lost. If someone recorded this, it will be on the front page tomorrow. Why is the volume so loud, you idiot?"
With his family often accompanying him to tournaments, it appears Littler is once again sailing the waters of singledom as he aims for the championship. His family relocated from their modest two-bedroom home to a lavish five-bedroom rental after his meteoric rise, highlighting just how quickly life can change for this young talent.
Looking to the future, Littler’s ambitions remain on track as he continues his ascent within the darts community. His exceptional talent has earned him accolades and sponsorships, and it seems he is on his way to not just sporting greatness but also potentially redefining personal success, depending on what the upcoming months hold for him. Will he emerge as the youngest champion and reclaim his spot as one of the most talked-about figures both on and off the dartboard? Only time will tell.