Luke Littler and Michael van Gerwen, two titans of darts, prepared to clash on Friday night at Alexandra Palace for the coveted Sid Waddell Trophy as they vie for the title of 2025 PDC World Darts Champion. At just 17, Littler stands on the brink of history; if he wins, he will become the youngest world champion ever, usurping Van Gerwen, who claimed his first title at the age of 24.
Both players showcased their prowess leading up to the final, with Littler dispatching Stephen Bunting 6-1 and Van Gerwen overcoming Chris Dobey by the same margin. Littler's meteoric rise continues to captivate fans, and he admitted, "It's the stuff of dreams, everyone wants to pick up a trophy, but you have to be at the top of your game to do it." Despite losing to Luke Humphries as a debutant finalist last year, he enters this final brimming with confidence.
Littler’s remarkable form this tournament, including hitting the highest three-dart average of 102.13 and registering 64 maximums, has turned him from the underdog to the favorite. Van Gerwen, often regarded as one of the most intimidating figures on the oche, acknowledged the stakes: “I have been there before, the smell is not good enough, you want to touch it. Luke's been there, he has had a sniff. I am going to make sure he keeps it as just a sniff as well.”
Expectations surrounding the final have reached fever pitch. With Van Gerwen eyeing his fourth title, he remarked on the changing dynamics of this encounter: “Now I'm not the favorite, and maybe I'm going to win it. You never know.” Pressure, he claimed, can sometimes be beneficial, feeding his competitive spirit.
Legendary referee Russ Bray also weighed in on Littler’s advantage: “We forget the fact he is just a kid... I think a lot of the pressure is taken away.” Littler, aware of the challenge and euphoria surrounding the final, declared, “I can tell you now, I’ve got no pressure. I’m sure Michael will have said the same, just gotta enjoy it.”
The buildup to the match showcased Littler's grounded approach, having chosen to stay with his family instead of at luxury accommodations, emphasizing his desire to remain comfortable and focused. This is pivotal for Littler, who maintains he understands the importance of seizing the day: “It’s as tough as every kid, every adult; they want to pick up the trophy.”
Meanwhile, Van Gerwen has dealt with his own pressures this season, especially following his last major title achievement dating back to 2019. He remains resolute, stating, “You have to make sure you are maintaining your own performance,” alluding to his roadmap for success against Littler.
The stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying encounter at Ally Pally. Will Littler make history, or will Van Gerwen reclaim his dominion as the darts world champion? The match is expected to draw significant attention, with legions of fans eagerly anticipating this rich narrative of youth vs. experience.
With the Sid Waddell Trophy on the line and both players' trajectories entwined at this pivotal moment, darts enthusiasts around the world will be glued to their screens as these two phenomenal players face off.