Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler has joined an elite group of players who have won 10 titles in a single year, placing himself alongside legends Michael van Gerwen, Phil Taylor and Peter Wright.

The 17-year-old achieved this remarkable milestone following a dominant Grand Slam victory, where he showcased his exceptional talent by winning 16-3 against Martin Lukeman.


The achievement included an extraordinary sequence of 15 consecutive legs, firmly establishing Littler among the sport’s most accomplished performers as he heads into the World Championship at Alexandra Palace.

Heading into the World Championship as a favourite, Littler exudes confidence about his chances of securing an 11th title this season.

Littler and MVG

Luke Littler is looking to beat Michael van Gerwen’s record

PA

“I could potentially end the year on 11, couldn’t I? But yeah, I’ve set another record,” Littler said.

“I’ve put my name into the other players who have won ten titles this year. But like I said, potentially it could be 11 by next year and I’ll try and break the record.”

The young star remains measured about his prospects, adding: “I’d like to pick up the trophy, but if not, just have another good run to the final.”

One of Littler’s key ambitions is to become the youngest-ever world champion, aiming to break Michael van Gerwen’s record of winning at age 24.

“Well, I know Michael Van Gerwen holds the youngest at 24, so I’ve got seven years,” Littler said.

JUST IN:Frank Lampard lands new job in club management

The teenager playfully added: “I could just slouch about for six years and then just win it when I’m 24.”

However, his real intention is clear: “But no, I’d like to obviously win it before Michael won it. It’d mean everything. So to be the youngest, that’s definitely what I’d be looking for.”

Littler’s meteoric rise in professional darts began with a stunning victory at the Bahrain Masters, where he hit a nine-darter.

READ MORE:Andy Murray’s family’s stance on Novak Djokovic coaching job after being told it is ‘an act of war’

Luke Littler

Luke Littler is on a mission to win the World Championship

PA

The achievement set the tone for an extraordinary debut year that exceeded his own expectations.

“I just wanted to win a few Pro Tours, but obviously winning Bahrain, the World Series, and then it was just European Tours, Pro Tours, and just all the titles I’ve picked up. It just goes to show how well I’ve been playing,” he said.

“It was good to win Bahrain, the first tournament of 2024. I’ve put my hands on it and I just had to build from it there and that’s what I’ve done.”

Luke Littler

Luke Littler has been one of the best players in the world this year

PA

The World Darts Championship kicks off at Alexandra Palace on Sunday December 15, featuring three first-round matches and one second-round clash on opening night.

The tournament will run for eight consecutive days, including seven afternoon sessions, before the traditional Christmas break from December 24 to Boxing Day.

LATEST SPORTS NEWS:

Michael van Gerwen

Michael van Gerwen is the youngest player to ever win the World Championship

PA

Play resumes with the third round on December 27, progressing through to the quarter-finals on New Year’s Day.

The semi-finals will take place on January 2, with the champion being crowned in the final on Friday January 3.