London: In a remarkable display of skill and composure, 17-year-old Luke Littler made history by defeating Michael van Gerwen 7-3 to become the youngest ever PDC World Championship winner.
Littler raced into a commanding 4-0 lead, and despite Van Gerwen managing to win three sets, he was never able to mount a serious comeback, with Littler consistently staying ahead.
Littler said that, “Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy. You’ve got to get through a tough field. I can’t believe it.”
Van Gerwen, who secured his third world title in 2019, has now lost three finals since then. The 35-year-old Dutchman, reflecting on the match, said that, “I’m 35, he’s 17. Every 17 years, a star gets born.”
Throughout the match, Van Gerwen struggled with his finishing, missing multiple darts at doubles and failing to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
A dream come true🤯❤️ WORLD CHAMPION🏆💥 pic.twitter.com/o7PXzI3uwm
— Luke Littler (@LukeTheNuke180) January 4, 2025
Littler, from Warrington, broke Van Gerwen’s previous record as the youngest champion at 24 when he won his first world title in 2014. The young darts sensation delivered a near-perfect performance, averaging over 102 and hitting 12 180s, further solidifying his rise in the sport.
Although Van Gerwen averaged 100 and hit 13 180s, his lack of precision on the doubles—hitting just 14 out of 38—allowed Littler to maintain control of the match.
In addition to the historic win, Littler secured the £500,000 first prize and claimed the Sid Waddell Trophy for the first time. With his maturity under pressure and dominant performance, this victory marks what is likely the first of many for Littler, who was still three weeks shy of his 18th birthday at the time.
Having been pipped by Luke Humphries in last year’s final, Littler saw the opportunity to claim the title when the world number one was eliminated in the fourth round this year.
Despite facing a three-time champion in Van Gerwen, Littler’s nerves of steel and powerful play proved he is ready for the biggest stages in darts.
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