Rising Star Luke Littler, 16, Stuns World Darts Championship with Incredible Run
Teenage prodigy Luke Littler astounds the world as he triumphs with a sensational 4-1 victory over Matt Campbell, propelling him further in the PDC World Darts Championship A remarkable breakthrough tournament for the young star
Sixteen-year-old Luke Littler, a rising star in the world of darts, extended his remarkable journey at the PDC World Darts Championship with an impressive 4-1 victory over Matt Campbell in the third round on Wednesday. Littler, who recently completed his schooling, has become a breakout sensation at this year's tournament, and has now etched his name as the youngest player to advance to the last 16. His next challenge will come against either Jim Williams or the renowned darts player Raymond van Barneveld.
Littler expressed his astonishment, "I only aimed to win one game and ended up winning three. It was a tough battle, but I'm overjoyed," he told We during his post-match interview on stage.
"Despite what everyone says on social media about my age, I'm 16 and I'll let my darts speak for themselves."
Ever since his debut at the tournament earlier this year, Littler has quickly become a beloved figure among fans at Alexandra Palace in north London. Throughout an emotional night for the teenager, the crowd chanted his name, solidifying his status as a firm favorite.
In a conversation with CNN Sport before his match, Littler expressed his enjoyment of the newfound fame and admitted to feeling "goosebumps" as he made his way to the venue.
"I can't believe how fast the crowd started rooting for me. I love it," Littler shared with CNN Sport. The teenager showed no signs of nerves as he quickly took a three-set lead, with his opponent failing to win a single leg of darts in the first two sets.
Littler exuded calm confidence, while his family remained on the edge of their seats at one side of the stage. Despite this, he would often look over to his family and pump his fist as if to reassure them, shaking his head in disbelief at what he was achieving in the match.
Littler has drawn global attention since bursting on the scene at this year's tournament.
Steven Paston/PA Images/Getty Images
The young player's initial strong performance faltered in the fourth set as Campbell started to find his groove. Despite initially struggling, the Canadian managed to win a set, but his 18-year-younger opponent remained resilient and did not falter.
The partisan crowd was thrilled as Littler found his stride and swiftly sealed the match with finesse. His fans chanting, "You've got school in the morning," before jubilantly celebrating his winning dart.
Breakthrough tournament
Littler has enjoyed a successful junior career, winning the World Youth Championship title in November.
Ever since making a splash at the World Darts Championship, Littler's popularity has soared, gaining tens of thousands more followers on social media. After his previous wins at the tournament, he became known for celebrating with a kebab, with a viral photo of him enjoying his post-victory meal. He has announced that he will continue this tradition after his latest triumph.
During the break between his second and third-round match, Littler mentioned that he didn't dwell much on his success during the festive period. However, he did confess to spending time watching his highlights on repeat. "Honestly, it was just Xbox and more Xbox," he told reporters after the match.
Littler is aware of his potential as a dangerous man in this year's tournament, but he remains grounded and realistic about his chances of winning the trophy. "I'm just happy," he said with a beaming smile, showing his genuine contentment.
