17-year-old Luke Littler defeated three-time champion Michael van Gerwen 7-3 to become the youngest PDC World Championship winner in history.
Littler's dazzling display at Alexandra Palace not only stunned the darts world, but also cemented his status as a phenomenon in the sport.
'The Nuke' broke the previous record held by Van Gerwen, who won his first world title in 2014 at the age of 24.
Facing one of the greatest players in darts history, Littler showed no signs of nerves.
He led 4-0, leaving Van Gerwen struggling to keep up.
While the Dutchman eventually managed to take three sets, he was unable to make a serious comeback, always falling behind Littler, who maintained a steady pace throughout.
Littler's performance was defined by clinical finishing and poise under pressure.
After narrowly missing out on the title last year when he lost to world number one Luke Humphries, the young star has returned to the grandest stage with renewed focus and determination.
date. to make. 🏆
Luke Letelier did it!!!
He was crowned the youngest champion ever as he won the 2024/25 season @paddypower World Darts Championship!
Special talent. pic.twitter.com/HVI8KtWrhh
— Siham PDC (@OfficialPDC) January 3, 2025
This time, there was no stopping him.
Van Gerwen seemed unstable in the early stages of the match. Despite his typically solid 3-pointer scoring, he faltered when it came to hitting doubles, allowing Littler to capitalize on and extend his lead.
The defeat was a rare stumble on the biggest stage. The Dutchman, a three-time world champion and one of the most decorated players in the history of darts, was gracious in defeat, acknowledging his opponent's exceptional performance.
Littler's historic win at the age of 17 is a moment that will be remembered in darts history. As the youngest world champion ever, he not only etched his name into the record books, but also inspired a new generation of players to dream big.
“I can't believe it,” he said after the win. “We both played well.
“I've said in interviews that I needed to get off to a fast start tonight and that's what I did. But he was behind me the whole game, those shots, he made two threes and I had to come back with two or three.
“Everyone dreams of lifting this cup. You have to go through a tough field. I can't believe it.
“I keep saying that but that first game against Ryan Mikel (in the second round) was the game that really mattered the most and I settled in throughout.
“When I was leading 2-0 (in the last set) I started to feel nervous but I told myself to just relax. I was preparing for the match, and it was special after that.”
The question now is: How far can Littler go? And with this stunning victory, it seems like the sky is the limit for the young sensation. If his performance at Alexandra Palace is any indication, the world of darts may be witnessing the rise of its next dominant force.
