Luke Littler cemented his status as darts' dominant force on Saturday night, successfully defending his PDC World Darts Championship title and banking a staggering £1 million prize in the process. The teenage sensation produced a masterclass to thrash Dutch opponent Gian van Veen 7-1 in the final at London's Alexandra Palace.
Emotional Victory Sealed with Supportive Partner
The magnitude of the moment was written across the faces of both champion and his loved ones. As the final dart found its mark, an emotional Littler sank to his knees on the iconic Ally Pally stage. In the crowd, his girlfriend, Faith Millar, was captured on camera fighting back tears of joy, her reaction speaking volumes about her support for the prodigy.
The couple, who have been together since March of last year, shared the spotlight after the match, with Faith joining the now two-time world champion on stage as he lifted the Sid Waddell Trophy. Her visible emotion underscored the intense pressure and dedication behind Littler's remarkable achievement.
A Dominant Path to Back-to-Back Glory
The world number one was in imperious form throughout the tournament, barely breaking sweat on his way to the final. He dispatched Darius Labanauskus, David Davies, and Mensur Suljovic in the early rounds before seeing off the challenges of former champion Rob Cross, Krzysztof Ratajski, and Ryan Searle.
His opponent in the final, 23-year-old Gian van Veen, had earned his shot by defeating heavyweights like Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson. However, he was simply outclassed by Littler, who found another gear after a tight first set to run away with a comprehensive 7-1 victory.
With this win, Luke Littler becomes the first player to win consecutive PDC world titles since Gary Anderson a decade ago. The victory, coming almost exactly a year after his first triumph over Michael van Gerwen, extends his lead at the top of the world rankings.
Life-Changing Win and Champion's Mindset
Speaking after his historic win, Littler revealed the mindset that carried him through. "It feels amazing," he said. "I started playing better from the second set. The first set, I wasn't happy going into the break but I had to kick on from there. I said to myself, 'Give it time, you will find it.'"
He was also quick to pay tribute to his final opponent, stating, "Gian, what a tournament, he can be very happy. Every set he was there and behind me. I had to take my chances." On the subject of the enormous financial reward, Littler was clear: "It is life-changing. This win has increased that gap from Luke Humphries and I'm in the clear for No 1."
Van Veen, gracious in defeat, acknowledged Littler's superiority on the night. "He played phenomenal," the Dutchman admitted. "He put me under pressure every leg, every set, and I missed too many chances today to make it a game. He's a fantastic player which is why he's world number one by a margin now."
At just 18 years old—turning 19 later this month—Luke Littler has not only defended his crown but has firmly established a potential era of dominance in world darts, with the unwavering support of his partner Faith Millar clear for all to see.
