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 place as a phenomenon in the sport.
‘The Nuke’ broke the record previously 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 nervousness.
He raced into a 4-0 lead, leaving Van Gerwen struggling to keep up.
While the Dutchman eventually managed to get three sets on the board, he was unable to mount a serious comeback, always trailing Littler, who maintained a relentless pace throughout.
Littler’s performance is defined by his clinical finishing and demeanor under pressure.
After narrowly missing out on the title last year when he was beaten by world No.1 Luke Humphries, the young star returned to the biggest stage with renewed focus and determination.
HISTORY. DONE. 🏆
LUKE LITTLER DID IT!!!
He was crowned the youngest champion in history because he won in 2024/25 @paddypower World Championship in Darts!
A special talent. pic.twitter.com/HVI8KtWrhh
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) January 3, 2025
This time there was no stopping him.
Van Gerwen looked flustered in the early stages of the match. Despite his typically strong three-dart scoring, he faltered when it came to hitting pars, allowing Littler to capitalize and extend his lead.
The defeat marked a rare setback on the biggest stage. A three-time world champion and one of the most decorated players in darts history, the Dutchman was gracious in defeat, crediting his opponent for an exceptional game.
Littler’s historic victory at the age of 17 is a moment that will be remembered in darts history. As the youngest world champion, he not only etched his name into the record books, but also inspired a new generation of players to dream big.
Speaking after the win he said: “I can’t believe it. We both played so well.
“I said in interviews that I had to start fast tonight and I did. But he was behind me the whole game, those coverage shots – he hit two triples and I would have to come back with two or three.
“Everyone dreams of lifting this trophy. You have to go through a difficult field. I can’t believe it.
“I keep saying that, except for that first game against Ryan Meikle [in round two] he was the one who really mattered, and overall I just agreed.
“With the score 2-0 [in the final set] I started to get nervous, but I told myself to relax. I threw myself for the match and it was very special to finish with that.”
The question now is: How far can Littler go? With this breakthrough win, it seems the sky is the limit for the young sensation. If his performance at Alexandra Palace is any indication, the darts world may be witnessing the rise of its next dominant force.
