Luke Littler, just 17 years old, has made history by becoming the youngest-ever winner of the World Darts Championship, announcing his dazzling presence on the darts scene with overwhelming performances. His victory at Alexandra Palace on January 1, 2025, not only etched his name in the record books but also set the stage for his upcoming challenge as he prepares to defend his title at the Premier League Darts, starting February 6, 2025.
The championship saw Littler showcase his immense talent, defeating Nathan Aspinall 5-2 to advance to the semi-finals. His performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of spectacular, maintaining an impressive average of over 101.54 against Aspinall. Littler expressed his confidence after the win, stating, “I feel amazing to get the win and start off 2025 with a win.”
Littler’s inaugural year as a professional darter has been remarkable, culminating with him collecting ten titles and becoming the reigning champion of the sport. This includes his recent victory, where he first captured the Premier League title the previous year against Luke Humphries, hitting four nine-darters during the season, which tied the record set by Gerwyn Price.
The attention now shifts to the 2025 Premier League Darts, which will take place over 17 weeks across various venues, including Belfast and Dublin. Littler is set to headline the event alongside heavyweights like world number one Luke Humphries and three-time champion Michael van Gerwen. The PDC Chief Executive, Matt Porter, commented on the lineup’s excitement, saying, “We are really excited by this year’s line-up, which I’m sure will entertain our incredible crowds across Ireland, the UK and Europe.”
Accolades aside, Littler faces immense pressure as the defending champion who is now eyeing the possibility of back-to-back wins. He shared his thoughts on this aspiration candidly: “Yeah, if I can go back to back, it'd mean the world.” Knowing the intense competition he must navigate, Littler emphasizes his intention to stay grounded, focusing on winning the early matches to secure his position for the play-offs.
Not only does Littler have personal ambitions, but he is also heralded as the future of darts. Dutch football legend Jaap Stam likened him to the young Wayne Rooney, relating his early success and poise under pressure, stating, “Littler seems like a great guy and has so much potential at such a young age.” It’s these comparisons added to his performance track record—successfully averaging over 100 during several matches—that keeps the spotlight firmly on him as the Premier League approaches.
On the other side, van Gerwen, who fought hard to reach the quarter-finals, will also be eager to secure his place among the elite by claiming his eighth Premier League title. He noted, “I think I’m in a good place” heading to the tournament, as he strives for redemption following last year’s disappointments.
Stephen Bunting, another name to watch, has surged back to form, clinching his first major title at the Masters earlier this January. He also made headlines by reaching the semi-finals at the World Championships, becoming one of the notable contenders within the Premier League lineup.
Looking back at his meteoric rise, Littler reflected on the support he received and the motivation to keep aiming high. Despite only being 17, he has accumulated significant recognition and expectations. He revealed his practice routine and deep dedication to the sport, insisting, “I am glad I’ve gotten to this darts world,” firmly attributing his success to hard work and focus.
The impending season showcases not just individual rivalries but the communal spirit and entertainment surrounding darts, which has gained tremendous popularity. According to reports, the Premier League Darts will engage huge live audiences, enhancing its visibility and love for the game.
Littler has advised aspiring players to maintain their composure amid the noisy atmosphere surrounding darts competitions. He often recalls thrilling moments spent among electrifying fans, stating the importance of staying true to oneself and keeping the confidence alive as he enters the Premier League.
With all eyes on the upcoming fixtures, many darts pundits are excited to see how Littler handles the significant expectations placed upon him as the youngest champion. Betting markets reflect this sentiment, listing him as the favorite to win the 2025 Premier League Darts, implanting him within the elite tier of professional darts competitors.
Having taken only days to relish his world title victory, Littler is quickly gearing up for his next adventure, vowing to bring the same intensity and skill to the Premier League. “People will see I will be hungry for more titles this year,” he predicted, leaving fans eager to witness his next steps on this breathtaking rise to darts domination.
The 2025 Premier League is set to kick off on February 6, promising unforgettable nights of darts action culminating at the O2 Arena for the playoffs on May 29. Fans are excited not just about who will take home the title, but also about the experience it brings to venues across Europe, transforming sports events with unforgettable energy.
It brings the world of darts to new heights, as Littler takes center stage, showcasing the future of sport.