January 4th 2025.
On Friday evening, Luke Littler achieved a momentous feat by claiming the World Darts Championship title. After falling short in his debut last year, the 17-year-old returned to the Ally Pally as a favorite, thanks to his remarkable first year in the sport. And he did not disappoint, delivering a darting masterclass and defeating the World No.3, Michael van Gerwen, with a comfortable 7-3 scoreline.
Littler's precision on the outer ring allowed him to take an early 4-0 lead, while van Gerwen's valiant resistance was no match for the teenager's prowess. Finally, Littler pinned D16 to secure his victory and the coveted Sid Waddell trophy, along with a £500,000 winners cheque. Overcome with emotion, Littler let out a roar and shed tears as the enormity of his achievement sunk in.
After the match, van Gerwen congratulated Littler and even whispered some words of encouragement in his ear, as the new World No.2 revealed later. "He said 'well done', but when we were on the side, he saw me crying and joked, 'keep crying boy, keep crying'," Littler shared. When asked about van Gerwen's performance in the tournament, Littler gave credit to the three-time world champion, stating that his side of the draw was not easy either.
While Littler's immediate plan was to return home for some much-needed rest, he also expressed his desire to take his trophy to the home of his beloved Manchester United, Old Trafford. "If they allow me to, I am sure I will go to Old Trafford," he said. Littler also jokingly mentioned that he was glad to have beaten his opponent, Stephen, in the semi-final, as he was "pretty sure he was taking it to Anfield on the weekend."
Van Gerwen, on the other hand, expressed disappointment at his slow start in the match but acknowledged Littler's remarkable talent. "Every chance he got, every moment he had to hurt me, he did it," he said. "I sometimes say that every 17 years a star gets born, and he is one of them." Van Gerwen also credited Littler for his well-deserved victory and admitted that the defeat hurt, but that's how it should be for a true sportsman.
Despite the loss, van Gerwen is determined to move on and improve his game. "I'm an old b****** compared to him! I have to take this on the chin," he said. "I wasn't sharp enough at the beginning of the game." He also joked about the age difference between him and Littler, but ultimately, acknowledged that the teenager's talent and hard work had paid off.
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