Luke Littler: The Youngest World Darts Champion
At just 17 years old, Luke Littler etched his name in darts history by defeating the renowned Michael van Gerwen in the 2025 World Darts Championship final. However, long before this monumental achievement, an amateur player named Dan Stapleton caught a glimpse of Littler’s extraordinary talent, setting the stage for what would become known as “The Nuke’s” meteoric rise in the world of darts.
The Unforgettable Encounter
On a seemingly ordinary day in 2023, Dan Stapleton arrived at a local darts tournament at Riley’s in Chester, North Wales. Little did he know that he was about to face one of the brightest stars in the sport. Just 16 years old at the time, Littler was already making waves, known for his remarkable skills on the board, including impressive nine-dart finishes.
Stapleton recalls the moment he realized Littler was his next opponent with a mix of excitement and apprehension. “I remember going up to the guy running it and saying, like, ‘cheers for that. How has that happened?’” he laughed. Little did Stapleton know, this encounter would be a prelude to Littler’s eventual championship glory.
Rising Star: Attributes and Early Success
Though Stapleton had played in tournaments against Littler previously, he hadn’t been intimately acquainted with him. “I was practicing with him before a 2022 tournament but didn’t interact much, as he was just a 15-year-old boy,” said Stapleton. Yet, by early 2023, Littler was generating significant buzz within the darts community.
On the day of their fateful match, Stapleton noticed the shift in Littler’s presence. The teenager arrived with confidence, and his reputation preceded him. Littler’s performance in that tournament included precise, calculating throws, averaging an impressive 88.41 during his match against Stapleton, ultimately leading to a swift 3-0 victory.
Stapleton’s Reflection: The High Stakes of Competition
As both players progressed through the tournament, Stapleton had mixed feelings about facing Littler. Despite feeling a tinge of disappointment, he also recognized the unique opportunity to compete against a rising legend. “Even when he played me, I think he must have known he was almost certain to win it that day,” Stapleton remarked, highlighting Littler’s fierce competitiveness.
Looking back, Stapleton vividly remembers the game, specifically the moments where he felt he could have made a difference. “I missed two darts to make it one-all, and then I had nine more darts. He won that leg and hit an 11-darter. Just like that, I was reminded of his skill,” he recalled.
The Year of Transformation
Fast forward a couple of years, and Littler’s ascent to fame is nothing short of impressive. He not only competed in the World Youth Championship later in 2023 but displayed remarkable sportsmanship and skill. Despite his semi-final defeat to Beau Greaves, Littler’s performance only added to his growing reputation.
Fans came to understand that Littler played with the same intensity, whether it was a local tournament or a prestigious championship match. This relentless drive culminated when he went on to win the World Darts Championship in January 2025, becoming the youngest to do so. His talent, sharpened through years of dedication, earned him accolades that few can hope to achieve at such a young age.
Stapleton’s Predictions and Bowing Down to Talent
Reflecting on Littler’s journey, Stapleton is hardly surprised. “I always thought he’d be a world champion eventually. No one could be that good at such a young age without achieving something great,” he said confidently.
He added a historical perspective, noting that other champions, like van Gerwen, were in their mid-20s when achieving their first world title. In contrast, Littler’s accomplishments at 17 have set a new standard, one that many believe could remain unbroken for years to come.
The Legacy in the Making
As Littler continues to push the boundaries of darts excellence, his story serves as inspiration not only for aspiring players but also for fans around the world. From that day in Chester, where Dan Stapleton first recognized the potential of “The Nuke,” to the emphatic victory over van Gerwen, Littler’s journey is a testament to talent, training, and the undeterred will to win.
