The curtains have drawn on this year’s PDC World Darts Championship, and what an incredible tournament it has been! The darts world has been shaken, stirred, and left in awe by none other than teenage sensation Luke Littler, who claimed the crown in spectacular fashion last Friday. At just 17 years old, Littler has etched his name into the history books as the youngest-ever darts world champion. In a stunning display of skill and composure, the English prodigy defeated former three-time world champion Michael van Gerwen with a commanding 7-3 victory. It’s safe to say, the heartbreak of last year’s loss to Luke Humphries is now a distant memory for the young star known as “The Nuke.”
The iconic Alexandra Palace, fondly known as Ally Pally, provided the perfect backdrop for this thrilling encounter. From the moment the first dart was thrown, Littler dominated, surging to a 4-0 lead before Van Gerwen could even get on the board. Although the Dutch legend battled back valiantly, he ultimately couldn’t match the unrelenting brilliance of Littler. The rising star played with the confidence of a seasoned champion, leaving fans and pundits in awe.
How the PDC Final Unfolded
The final was as electrifying as the scores suggest, with both players delivering moments of brilliance. Here’s a breakdown of how the sets played out:
Set 1: Littler 3-1 Van Gerwen
Set 2: Littler 3-0 Van Gerwen
Set 3: Littler 3-1 Van Gerwen
Set 4: Littler 3-1 Van Gerwen
Set 5: Littler 1-3 Van Gerwen
Set 6: Littler 3-2 Van Gerwen
Set 7: Littler 2-3 Van Gerwen
Set 8: Littler 3-0 Van Gerwen
Set 9: Littler 1-3 Van Gerwen
Set 10: Littler 3-0 Van Gerwen
While Van Gerwen’s experience shone through in parts, Littler’s consistency and precision ultimately proved unbeatable. His early dominance and ability to regroup after losing a couple of sets showed a maturity beyond his years.
But for Van Gerwen, it’s not just about winning—it’s about legacy. A fourth PDC World Championship title would solidify his place as one of the greatest players to ever pick up a dart. Tonight, he’ll be looking to use all his experience to overcome the fearless upstart standing in his way.
Match Stats: Littler vs. Van Gerwen
Let’s take a closer look at the stats from this unforgettable showdown:
Stat: Luke Littler / Michael van Gerwen
Average: 102.73 / 100.69
100+ Scores: 52 / 44
140+ Scores: 23 / 44
180s: 12 / 13
Highest Checkout: 130 / 132
100+ Checkouts: 2 / 1
Double Success: 56% / 37 %
These numbers tell a compelling story of Littler’s superiority on the night. While Van Gerwen excelled in certain areas, particularly with his 180s and highest checkout of 132, Littler’s higher average and deadly double success rate (56%) were pivotal.
The Rise of Luke Littler
Nicknamed “The Nuke,” Littler has captivated darts fans worldwide with his incredible talent and humble demeaner. At just 17, he has shown poise, precision, and an unshakeable focus that belies his age. His meteoric rise to the top is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.
Littler’s journey to this historic victory wasn’t without challenges. Last year’s narrow defeat to Luke Humphries in the semi-finals could have derailed his momentum, but instead, it fuelled his determination. He’s returned stronger, smarter, and hungrier, proving that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the darts world.
Pay outs: A Championship Worth Winning
The PDC World Darts Championship isn’t just about glory; it’s also one of the most lucrative events in the sport. Here’s how the prize money was distributed this year:
- Winner: £500,000
- Runner-up: £200,000
- Semi-finalists: £100,000
- Quarter-finalists: £50,000
- Fourth-round losers: £35,000
- Third-round losers: £25,000
- Second-round losers: £15,000
- First-round losers: £7,500
With a total prize fund of £2.5 million, the PDC World Championship offers a fantastic payday for the sport’s elite players. Littler’s £500,000 victory not only cements his place in history but also provides a substantial reward for his efforts.
What’s Next for Littler?
As darts fans bask in the excitement of this year’s final, one question looms large: What’s next for Luke Littler? The teenager has already demonstrated that he has the skill and mental toughness to compete with the very best. With his maiden world title now under his belt, the sky’s the limit.
For Littler, the challenge will be maintaining this level of performance while navigating the pressures of fame and expectation. But if his composure at Ally Pally is anything to go by, he’s more than ready for the journey ahead. The darts world can look forward to many more thrilling encounters featuring this young star.
A Final Word on the PDC World Championship 2024
This year’s PDC World Darts Championship has been one for the ages. From the electrifying atmosphere at Ally Pally to the jaw-dropping performances from the sport’s biggest names, it’s a tournament that will live long in the memory.
Luke Littler’s victory is a landmark moment, not just for him but for the sport as a whole. It’s a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of darts and the emergence of new stars ready to take the stage. With his combination of skill, focus, and humility, Littler has all the makings of a future legend.
As we look back on this unforgettable final, one thing is certain: The Nuke has arrived, and he’s here to stay. Congratulations to Luke Littler, the 2024 PDC World Darts Champion!