Rewind 18 months and very few people outside of the darting world knew of Luke Littler. But on Thursday he could win his second Premier League title in as many years, just five months after becoming world champion. BBC Sport caught up with the 18-year-old and showed him pictures of the best moments from his career and asked him to talk us through them in his own words. Littler as he prepared for his opening World Championship match against the Netherlands' Christian Kist Littler became known to a wider - and non-darts - audience during the 2024 World Darts Championship in December 2023 and January 2024. He beat former world championsRaymond van BarneveldandRob Crosson his way to becoming the youngest world finalist at 16 years and 347 days. Helost the final 7-4 to world number one Luke Humphries. "My first ever World Championships, as a 16-year-old boy. The tournament as a whole was really good - making it to the final aged 16 was an incredible achievement. It's one of the memories that will live with me forever. "I was looking into the crowd, I was ready to get onto the biggest stage of them all with millions watching. "I didn't have many expectations, just try to win that first game on my debut and then see what see what goes on from there... and it was pretty good. "The more games that I did win, the more popular I got, the more followers I got on social media and since then it's not stopped. It's been crazy. Littler embraces Luke Humphries after the world number one wins the final "Luke Humphries was crowned world champion. We had a cracking final - I did miss double two to go 5-2 up which would have been a massive advantage. "I don't remember too much but I do remember after we finished I said to him, 'go over to your family, go and celebrate'. "That year I was very happy to make the World Championships and win my first game. To get to the final was a massive boost, it got me up the rankings and I was invited to the Premier League. "The atmosphere is good among the players, we all get on, we have a laugh but once we're on stage, that's our job - we go to work." Littler after winning the 2024 Premier League final at London's O2 Arena Littler didn't have to wait long to win his first major PDC title though, withvictory in the Premier League in May 2024. The Premier League sees the top-four ranked players in the world, plus four invitational players and, after his success at the Worlds, Littler earned a spot. He won four of the 16 regular league nights and then beat Humphries 11â7 in the final of the play-offs at London's O2 Arena to become the youngest player to win a major PDC tournament. He even hit a nine-darter - the minimum number of darts needed to complete a leg - in the final. "This is a very good picture! Hitting double 20 to win the Premier League. That was a year ago last week and now we're back to do it all again. "It was a very long 16-week format, it's been the same again this year, but to win it on debut - 17 at the time - and to beat Luke was a bit of payback from the World Championships. "My first major title was a good one. "I was even better in the Premier League than my first World Championships. I was more confident in my ability and I played even better. My performances showed why I won the Premier League. Littler went down to celebrate with his family immediately after his victory "It was a massive moment with my mum and dad afterwards. There were obviously doubts about whether I was ready to play in the Premier League but I came out on top. To share it with my mum and dad was even better. "I have no idea what they said to me, I was just happy to win. We went home the next day and I'm pretty sure it was the FA Cup final the next weekend and we saw Man Utd win it against City so it was a pretty good couple of weeks." Littler had a spin around Silverstone with eventual Formula 1 World Championship runner-up Lando Norris before the British Grand Prix in 2024 Littler's popularity and stardom extends far wider than a darts audience. He was invited intoTottenham midfielder James Maddison's box,externalduring his first World Championship campaign and did a Hot Lap around Silverstone with Lando Norris before the British Grand Prix in 2024. He is an avid Manchester United fan and has visited their training ground to play darts against the players, while he has attended matches as a guest,meeting Sir Alex Ferguson and Bruno Fernandes,external, and he paraded his World Championship trophy earlier this year. "Another good one. Lando Norris helping me put my helmet on before the Hot Lap at Silverstone, where he drove me around in a very fast McLaren! "I never thought I would be in a car with one of the best F1 drivers there is at the minute but he took me round in the car, I played some darts with him as well - just a really good experience. "Then at the Spurs game last season, on my way to the carI saw Bruno,external[Fernandes] and I had to get a selfie with him. "He's one of my favourite players. He's not missed a game through injury yet, provides goals and assists and he's definitely helped us the past few seasons. This year he's helped us avoid relegation! "Meeting the United squad last year and Carrington,meeting Sir Alex Ferguson,external- they're crazy experiences and I thank Man Utd for the opportunity. "Harry Maguire was the best darts player, Christian Eriksen was a good thrower, but just playing darts with them was crazy." Rugby league side Warrington - where Littler is from - renamed their stadium to the The Luke Littler Stadium for one match after his World Championship success in 2025 After his World Championship success, Super League's Warrington Wolves - his hometown club - renamed their ground for a game, while he has alsomet singer Pitbull in Dublin,external, with the teenager using his song Greenlight as his walk-out song throughout his career. "The Luke Littler Stadium. This is another one that is near the top - having Warrington Wolves' stadium named after me. A good night overall and I'm glad we got the win that night! "It was a massive honour. It was good to go and see us win. "And then, I think, this is thelink-up,externalthat everyone wanted to see! But for myself, as a Pitbull fan and walking out to one of his songs that he did at WrestleMania 33, when I was there as a fan. It was good to see him and it was a great show in Dublin. "I was 10 when I saw him at that WrestleMania. I was wrestling crazy and they have a theme song for every WrestleMania. Another crazy experience in Orlando and now I use one of his songs." Littler was visibly emotional after becoming world champion The achievement took some time to settle in Littler became world championon 3 January 2025 with a 7-3 victory over Dutchman and three-time winner Michael van Gerwen. It made Littler the youngest world darts champion, aged 17 years and 347 days. He beat Van Gerwen's record, from 2014 when he was 24. It saw Littler move past £1,000,000 in prize money and took him up to a career high world ranking of second, behind Humphries. "Look at him crying there! Yeah, obviously one of the biggest achievements of my career so far. Winning the Sid Waddell Trophy and becoming world champion by beating Michael van Gerwen. "You could see there that I still couldn't believe it. "I was coming into the tournament ranked two or three in the world but even the first game against Ryan Meikle was hard enough. "To pick up the trophy and beat a very good Michael van Gerwen in the final... it meant everything. "The World Matchplay is the next one that I'm looking at but first I'm looking at the Premier League on Thursday night." Littler was booed by fans in Leeds because of his Manchester United connections but responded by gesturing they should cry when he was winning against Nathan Aspinall Littler's defence of his Premier League crown went pretty smoothly in the 16-week league phase. Hebroke the record for nightly wins,which was four, bywinning six events.He also finished on 45 points, five more than the previous record. He will face 2021 world champion Gerwyn Price in the semi-finals on Thursday night, with Humphries facing Nathan Aspinall in the other game. Littler will remain second in the worldregardless of how he performs during finals night. "This was in Leeds in the Premier League this year and Nathan Aspinall missed seven or eight darts to go 5-3 up, I hit my double to make it 4-4 and it was basically me saying to the crowd 'cry more'! "It's just for myself. Being a sportsman, doing stuff like this and just being myself, letting my emotions out - especially the Leeds crowd. "I think this just relaxes me, interacting with the crowd. The crowd then get involved but the most important is getting over the line." There were louder boos two weeks before in Liverpool but Littler gestured to the crowd to 'calm down' during his quarter-final defeat by Michael van Gerwen
'Look at him crying' - Littler's rise in his own words
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Luke Littler Reflects on Rapid Rise in Darts and Achievements"
Bbc News
7.9
TruthLens AI Summary
In just 18 months, Luke Littler, a young darts player from Warrington, has made a significant impact on the sport, rising from relative obscurity to become a household name. His journey began to gain traction during the 2024 World Darts Championship, where at the tender age of 16 years and 347 days, he became the youngest world finalist in history. Despite losing to Luke Humphries in the final, Littler's performance, which included victories over established champions like Raymond van Barneveld and Rob Cross, catapulted him into the spotlight and earned him a place in the Premier League. Reflecting on his debut, Littler expressed his astonishment at reaching the final, noting that he initially had low expectations and aimed merely to win his first match. His success at the World Championship not only boosted his confidence but also significantly elevated his rankings in the sport, leading to increased popularity and social media following.
Littler's impressive career continued as he secured his first major PDC title by winning the Premier League in May 2024, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat. His journey in the Premier League was marked by exceptional performances, including a nine-darter in the final against Humphries. Beyond darts, Littler's rising stardom has led to connections with other sports and celebrities, including a memorable experience driving with Formula 1's Lando Norris and meeting Manchester United players. The emotional highlight of his career came when he became the youngest world darts champion in January 2025, defeating three-time champion Michael van Gerwen. Littler's achievements have not only established him as a formidable player in darts but have also allowed him to connect with fans and sports icons, solidifying his place in the sport's history. As he prepares to defend his Premier League title, Littler remains focused on his goals while enjoying the experiences that come with his newfound fame.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article focuses on the rapid rise of Luke Littler in the darts world, highlighting his achievements and experiences as a young player. It serves to celebrate his accomplishments while providing insight into his journey from relative obscurity to becoming a prominent figure in the sport. By showcasing his story, the article aims to inspire and engage both darts enthusiasts and a broader audience.
Purpose and Audience Perception
The intent behind this article seems to be twofold: to inform the public about Littler's impressive achievements and to foster a sense of admiration for a young talent in the sporting world. It presents him not just as a competitor but as a relatable individual who has experienced the highs and lows of competition. This humanization of Littler could help create a deeper emotional connection with readers, especially among younger audiences who may see him as a role model.
Transparency and Hidden Narratives
There does not appear to be an intentional effort to hide or obscure any information. Instead, the focus is on celebrating Littler’s accomplishments and the excitement surrounding his career. However, the article does not delve into the potential pressures and challenges that come with such rapid fame, which could be perceived as a missing narrative.
Manipulative Elements
While the article predominantly presents factual information, it does employ a narrative style that could be interpreted as slightly manipulative. By emphasizing Littler's youth and emotional moments, it seeks to evoke sympathy and admiration from readers. Such emotional storytelling can steer public perception positively, potentially overshadowing the competitive nature of sports.
Credibility of the News
The credibility of this news piece appears high, as it is based on verifiable events and achievements in the darts world. It draws on specific instances from Littler’s career, contributing to its authenticity. The article does not appear to spread misinformation or unfounded claims.
Public Sentiment and Market Impact
The portrayal of Littler as a rising star could positively influence public sentiment towards the sport of darts, encouraging increased viewership and participation. This could have economic implications for the sport, particularly in sponsorship and merchandising, as a popular athlete can attract more investment.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at a diverse audience, including darts fans, young athletes, and casual sports enthusiasts. By telling Littler’s story, it appeals to those interested in the journey of young sports figures, particularly those who resonate with themes of perseverance and success.
Global Context
While the article primarily focuses on an individual athlete, it reflects broader trends in sports where young talents are increasingly recognized and celebrated. This aligns with a global narrative of youth empowerment in various fields, including sports.
Use of AI in Writing
There is no explicit indication that artificial intelligence was used in crafting this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have assisted in structuring the narrative or analyzing data to highlight key achievements. The emotional emphasis in Littler’s quotes could suggest an editorial decision aimed at creating a more engaging story.
Manipulative Language Considerations
The article does not overtly manipulate its audience but uses emotive language to enhance Littler's relatability. This technique serves to build a positive image around him and the sport, although it does not provide a complete picture of the competitive landscape he navigates.
In conclusion, the article effectively showcases Luke Littler's journey and achievements while engaging a broad audience in the world of darts. Its focus on emotional storytelling helps to build a narrative that is both inspiring and relatable.