Littler beats Van Gerwen to become youngest Ally Pally champion
17-year-old Luke Littler defeated three-time champion Michael van Gerwen 7:3 to become the youngest PDC world champion in history.
Littler’s stunning performance at Alexandra Palace not only stunned the darts world but also cemented his place as a phenomenon in the sport.
“The Nuke” broke the previous record set by Van Gerwen, who won his first world title in 2014 at the age of 24.
Against one of the greatest players in darts history, Littler showed no signs of nervousness.
He stormed to a commanding 4-0 lead, leaving Van Gerwen struggling to keep up.
Although the Dutchman managed to put three sets on the court in the end, he was unable to mount a serious comeback as he always fell behind Littler, who maintained a relentless pace throughout.
Littler’s performance was notable for his clinical finishing and poise under pressure.
After narrowly missing out on the title last year when he was beaten by world number 1 Luke Humphries, the young star returned to the biggest stage with renewed focus and determination.
STORY. MADE. 🏆
LUKE LITTLER DID IT!!!
He will be crowned the youngest champion ever by winning the 2024/25 season @paddypower Darts World Championship!
A special talent. pic.twitter.com/HVI8KtWrhh
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) January 3, 2025
This time there was no stopping him.
Van Gerwen seemed unsettled in the early stages of the game. Despite his typically strong three-dart result, he failed to hit the doubles, allowing Littler to capitalize and extend his lead.
The defeat was a rare stumble on the biggest stage. As a three-time world champion and one of the most decorated players in the history of darts, the Dutchman was gracious in defeat and acknowledged his opponent’s extraordinary performance.
Littler’s historic victory at the age of 17 is a moment that will never be forgotten in darts history. As the youngest world champion ever, he not only made his name in the record books, but also inspired a new generation of players to dream big.
After the win he said: “I can’t believe it. We both played so well.
“I’ve said in interviews that I need to get off to a quick start tonight and that’s what I did. But he was behind me the whole game, those coverage throws – he had made two three-pointers and I had to come back with two or three.
“Everyone dreams of winning this trophy. You have to fight your way through a difficult field. I can’t believe it.
“I keep saying it, but the first game against Ryan Meikle (in round two) was what really counted and I just settled for it the whole time.
“At 2-0 (in the final set) I got nervous but told myself to just relax. I threw for the match and it was special to finish it.”
The question now is: How far can Littler go? With this groundbreaking victory, there seems to be no limits for the young sensation. If his appearance at Alexandra Palace is any indication, the darts world could well be witnessing the rise of its next dominant force.
