Teenage sensation Luke Littler came within three sets of one of the greatest sporting stories, but was denied by world number one Luke Humphries in the PDC World Darts Championship final at Alexandra Palace. The 16-year-old debutant, who had captured the nation's imagination, ultimately lost 7-4 to a ruthless Humphries.
Littler walked away with £200,000 as runner-up, his biggest payday to date. However, the Warrington prodigy has already set his sights on the next challenge: the £200,000 Golden Bull prize at the Saudi Darts Masters. 'I just wanted to win my first game and be back after Christmas,' he said, reflecting on his tournament run.
Humphries, who claimed the £500,000 top prize, was described by Sky Sports pundit Wayne Mardle as 'riding the crest of a wave' after winning four of the last five major tournaments. The final also marked the last World Championship for referee Russ Bray, the 'voice of darts', who called his 28th final before semi-retirement.
Littler remained in high spirits after the defeat, admitting a missed double two was 'stupid' but acknowledging he played a part in a 'good tournament and a good final'. As he returned to his hotel with girlfriend Eloise Milburn and father Anthony Buckley, the teenager's focus now shifts to Saudi Arabia.
