Luke Littler, the 17-year-old darts prodigy from Warrington, has made history by winning the 2025 World Darts Championship, becoming the youngest player to ever hold the title. Littler delivered a stunning performance at Alexandra Palace, dominating three-time champion Michael van Gerwen.
Littler's rise to prominence started 14 years ago when he picked up his first dart at just three years old. Imitation and ambition drove him, as he celebrated like Raymond van Barneveld after the Dutchman's 2007 triumph. Yet, it was during the last 13 months where Littler’s meteoric rise took shape. After bursting onto the scene at the 2024 World Championship as an underdog, he shocked the darts world by reaching the final, albeit falling to current world number one Luke Humphries.
Now, just one year later, Littler has transformed his position from novice to champion. He topped off his incredible year by winning 10 titles, including prestigious events such as the Premier League and Grand Slam of Darts, and amassing over £1 million from his wins. His achievements have not just brought him accolades within the sport but also made him one of the most recognized figures outside it, noted to be the UK’s most searched athlete of 2024.
Leading up to the championship final, Littler acknowledged the necessity of reflecting on his past defeat against Humphries. He admitted to revisiting the footage of last year’s final, where he carefully analyzed what went wrong. "No one will know this, but earlier today, I watched all of the game back against Luke and I just had the visions," Littler revealed. This introspection seemed to fuel his confidence for the fateful clash against van Gerwen.
The final itself saw Littler deliver one of the most commanding displays of darts seen on the Ally Pally stage, as he fired 12 180s and averaged 102.73 during the match. His clinical execution of 56% on doubles made it clear he was on course to claim victory. The tension was palpable as fans anticipated what was deemed one of the hottest tickets of the year, with Littler determined to prove he was no fluke.
Michael van Gerwen, who faced Littler, expressed admiration for the young champion's skills. "Fair play to him, every chance he got, every moment he had to hurt me, he did it. I sometimes say every 17 years, a star gets born, and he is one of them," van Gerwen stated post-match. His respect for the young competitor underscored the weight of the moment; for Littler to have dethroned such an accomplished rival showcased both his talent and potential future dominance.
Now, with Littler crowned champion, the conversation quickly pivots to the future of darts. If his current trend continues, the young star may one day eclipse the legendary Phil Taylor's record of 16 world titles. Darts enthusiasts are already buzzing with excitement at the prospect of years of competition from Littler, whose meteoric rise shows no signs of slowing down.
Looking forward, Littler mentioned his desire to celebrate his win at Old Trafford, the home of his beloved Manchester United. He quipped about wanting to bring the trophy to the ground, stating, "If they allow me to then, I am sure I will go to Old Trafford." It’s moments like these, celebrating championship victories alongside passions for football, which symbiotically boost the profile of both sports.
For now, the darts world faces the reality of having to tailor its expectations around Littler’s exceptional abilities and youthful enthusiasm. While van Gerwen may spend the next few years trying to regain his previous form, Littler will revel accordingly, enjoying the limelight as darts’ newest star. The game is witnessing the dawn of what could be regarded as the Littler era, one marked by record-breaking feats and monumental achievements.