The darts world continues to be captivated by Luke Littler, the 19-year-old phenom who is rapidly establishing himself as a dominant force in the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Littler recently showcased his extraordinary talent with a stunning 170 checkout against Mike De Decker in the World Grand Prix on , a feat that has only added to his growing legend. The checkout, often referred to as “The Big Fish,” was captured from a unique player perspective, offering a glimpse into the precision and focus Littler brings to the oche.
This latest victory comes on the heels of an already remarkable run for Littler. He is currently ranked world No. 1, a position he’s solidified after winning the PDC World Championship in both and . Remarkably, he remains the youngest world champion in darts history, claiming the title at 17 years and 347 days old. His trophy cabinet is rapidly filling up, boasting a total of 11 PDC major titles, placing him joint-third all-time.
The 170 checkout against De Decker wasn’t an isolated incident of brilliance. Littler has demonstrated a consistent ability to perform under pressure, a characteristic that sets him apart from many of his peers. The Sky Sports broadcast highlighted the moment, showcasing the skill and composure that have become hallmarks of his game. The clip circulating on social media, including a post on the Official PDC Facebook page, has further amplified the excitement surrounding the young star.
Littler’s success isn’t limited to the World Championship. He has also secured victories in the World Matchplay (), the UK Open (), and the Grand Slam ( and ). He also claimed the Premier League title in and the PC Finals (). Most recently, he added the Masters title to his collection in , and the World Series Finals (). This consistent performance across various major tournaments underscores his versatility and adaptability.
Beyond the major titles, Littler has consistently been recognized for his individual achievements. He has been awarded Televised Performance of the Year in , , and , as well as Young Player of the Year in and . He was also named PDC Player of the Year and Best Newcomer in both and , and earned the PDPA Players’ Player of the Year award. These accolades demonstrate the respect he commands from both fans and fellow professionals.
Littler’s rise to prominence hasn’t been without its challenges. A recent early exit on the opening night of the Premier League Darts, described as “flat” by commentators, served as a reminder that even the most talented players experience setbacks. However, he quickly rebounded, demonstrating resilience and a determination to improve. He even reportedly hit a nine-darter during practice before a recent New Zealand Darts Masters win, stating, “That’s when I felt like no one could beat me,” highlighting the confidence he gains from consistent practice and success.
His walk-on music, “Greenlight” by Pitbull featuring Flo Rida and LunchMoney Lewis, has become synonymous with his electrifying performances. Littler’s impact extends beyond the PDC, having also represented England in the WDF Europe Cup, securing medals in both the team and individual events in . This demonstrates his ability to compete at a high level across different darts organizations.
The current Premier League Darts table reflects a competitive landscape, with Humphries defending his title. Littler’s early exit in the opening round served as a wake-up call, but his subsequent performances suggest he is more than capable of challenging for the title. Van Gerwen, after winning the Premier League opener, warned his rivals that they now have to chase him, adding another layer of intrigue to the competition.
Looking ahead, Littler’s continued success will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the sport of darts. His youthful energy and exceptional talent are attracting a new generation of fans, and his performances are inspiring aspiring players around the world. The fact that he is still only 19 years old suggests that his best years are yet to come, and the darts world will be watching with keen interest to see what he accomplishes next. His ability to consistently deliver under pressure, combined with his unwavering dedication to the sport, positions him as a potential long-term dominant force in the PDC.
