Luke Littler emerged victorious in the Premier League 2024 final, defeating Luke Humphries with an impressive 11-7 scoreline at the O2 Arena in London. The 17-year-old prodigy secured the £275,000 prize after a remarkable performance on Thursday night.
The match remained tightly contested until Littler’s stunning nine-dart finish in the 11th leg propelled him into a 6-5 lead. Littler’s sequence included back-to-back 180s and a 141 checkout, achieved with treble 20, treble 19, and double 12. This momentous leg shifted the momentum in Littler’s favor, leading to his eventual triumph.
Littler extended his lead to 10-7, ultimately sealing his victory by hitting a double 20 after leaving himself on 40. Overwhelmed with emotion, Littler celebrated by embracing his family and girlfriend, Eloise Milburn.
In a post-match interview with Sky Sports, Littler expressed his joy: “For all the doubters, you’re not doubting me any more! I’ve just picked up this. It’s so good to win but in front of my family and my girlfriend! I don’t know what to do.”
Littler’s nine-dart finish in the Premier League final was a historic feat, making him the first to achieve this since Phil Taylor in 2010. His journey to the final included a decisive 10-5 victory over Michael Smith earlier that night, setting up a rematch of the World Championship final from January, where Humphries had prevailed.
Throughout the 16-week league competition, Littler showcased his dominance, finishing at the top of the table with 40 points after winning four nights. His stellar performance earned him a spot in the finals alongside Humphries, Smith, and Michael van Gerwen, who collectively hold five world titles.
After his defeat, Humphries acknowledged Littler’s exceptional skill and composure: “It’s credit to Luke, he managed it all night so well. When I went to the break 5-5 I had stuck in there. But then all of a sudden the breeze stopped and he’s played much better – he’s such a fantastic player, he really is.”
Littler’s emotional victory was further highlighted by his relationship with Milburn, who has been a supportive presence at his matches since the beginning of the month. The couple went public during the World Championship and have been together throughout 2024.
Humphries added, “I think me and Luke are the two greatest players in the world at the moment and this was another great battle. I just love playing him – I know I lose a lot, but I just love playing him and we are going to have many more battles in the future.”
Littler’s triumph marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career, establishing him as a formidable force in the world of darts.
