Teenage sensation Luke Littler is one step away from making history as the youngest-ever champion at the World Darts Championship after demolishing Stephen Bunting 6-1 in the semi-finals on Thursday night. Littler now faces three-time champion Michael van Gerwen in Friday’s grand finale, a clash that promises to be one of the most memorable in recent years at Alexandra Palace.
Littler’s Stunning Display
Nicknamed “The Nuke,” 17-year-old Littler put on a dazzling performance, hitting 13 maximums, a 170 finish, and averaging 105.48. His clinical finishing on double 10 and unrelenting consistency overwhelmed eighth-seed Bunting, who averaged an impressive 113.35 in the opening set but still fell behind 1-0.
Key Moments in Littler’s Semi-Final:
- Maximums: 13
- Best Finish: 170
- Overall Average: 105.48
Bunting avoided a whitewash by claiming the fifth set but was otherwise reduced to “darting rubble,” as Littler cruised to victory with flair and confidence, securing his second consecutive final appearance.
“I can’t wait. If we both turn up like we did tonight, it’s going to be really good,” Littler said, looking ahead to the final.
Van Gerwen’s Efficient Victory
Michael van Gerwen, aiming for his fourth world title and first since 2019, dispatched Chris Dobey with a commanding 6-1 victory. While his average of 98.84 wasn’t his highest, the Dutchman’s dominance never wavered, starting the match with a 180 and maintaining control throughout.
Despite the victory, Van Gerwen kept his focus, dropping an F-bomb during his post-match interview as he reminded fans:
“I’ve won f*** all yet.”
The Stage is Set: Littler vs. Van Gerwen
This final pits the rising star against one of the sport’s all-time greats in a clash of youth versus experience:
| Player | Age | Best Finish | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luke Littler | 17 | Runner-Up (2024) | 13 maximums, 170 finish, avg. 105.48 |
| Michael van Gerwen | 34 | 3x Champion (2014, 2017, 2019) | Avg. 98.84 in semi-final, consistent finisher |
Should Littler triumph, he will break Van Gerwen’s record as the youngest champion in PDC history. However, the Dutchman’s vast experience and hunger to reclaim the Sid Waddell Trophy ensure this will be no easy feat for the teenager.
What’s at Stake
- Winner’s Prize: £500,000
- Trophy: The Sid Waddell Trophy
- Legacy: Littler could become the youngest-ever champion, while Van Gerwen aims to reaffirm his dominance.
With Alexandra Palace set to roar for one last night, all eyes are on whether Littlermania will reach its ultimate crescendo or if “Mighty Mike” will reign supreme once again.
