Luke Littler has done it again, crushing Gian van Veen 7-1 in the World Darts Championship final to claim his second consecutive title at Alexandra Palace.
The 18-year-old sensation was in tears after the match, becoming the first player to win back-to-back world championships since Gary Anderson managed the feat a decade ago.
And there’s the small matter of the prize money – a record-breaking £1 million that Littler himself described as “absolutely life-changing.”
The victory also cements his position at the top of the rankings, with Littler noting that the win has widened the gap between himself and Luke Humphries, putting him firmly in the clear as world number one.
Luke Littler paid tribute to Anthony Joshua and retiring pair John McDonald and George Noble
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SKY SPORTS
But it was what Littler said immediately after his triumph that really showed his true colours.
Before celebrating his own achievement, the young champion took a moment to pay tribute to Anthony Joshua, who narrowly escaped death in a fatal car crash in Nigeria just days before the final.
The accident tragically claimed the lives of two of the boxer’s close friends.
“Everyone knows what happened to Anthony Joshua and his team and his friends. Rest in peace to those guys,” Littler said from the oche.
He then cleverly referenced Joshua’s own words, adding: “Just like AJ said, the first time was so nice, I had to do it twice!”
Luke Littler has become world champion for a second time
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REUTERS
It was a classy touch from a teenager who clearly understands that sport is about more than just winning.
Littler’s emotional speech also included a touching tribute to two retiring legends of the sport.
“First of all I’ve got to say thank you to John McDonald and George Noble, what fantastic careers they’ve had,” he declared.
The champion couldn’t resist a bit of self-deprecating humour either, joking: “In my first year Russ Bray retired, now these two legends. I think I’m a bit late to the party!”
Legendary MC John McDonald has now retired from darts
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PA
It’s clear that despite his meteoric rise to the top of the sport, Littler hasn’t forgotten those who paved the way before him.
His willingness to share the spotlight with departing icons, even in his moment of glory, speaks volumes about the character behind the talent.
Van Veen was gracious in defeat, acknowledging that his opponent simply didn’t give him any openings.
“Luke definitely wasn’t in the mood to give me any chances. He played phenomenal,” the Dutchman admitted.
Gian van Veen was magnanimous in defeat, admitting the best player won
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REUTERS
“He put me under pressure every leg, every set, and I missed too many chances today to make it a game.”
Despite the disappointment, Van Veen can take pride in reaching world number three and becoming Dutch number one.
As for what comes next, Littler is already looking ahead to potential rematches with his beaten opponent.
“Maybe we might come back here in the final in 2027!” he suggested, noting that the pair will face each other regularly in the Premier League.
Luke Littler was overcome with emotion after winning the title
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REUTERS
One thing’s certain – Littler has no intention of slowing down.
“This is why we are here and it’s not stopping any time soon,” he declared.
