tournament in London
Teen sensation against number one: The darts final
Could become the youngest world champion in darts history: Luke Littler. photo
© Zac Goodwin/PA Wire/dpa
A Luke will become darts world champion, that much is certain. Luke Humphries could cement his status as number one. But compatriot Luke Littler has other plans.
For 500,000 pounds, the huge Sid Waddell Trophy and the greatest crowning achievement of his sport must be darts teenager Luke Littler now has to overcome the highest hurdle of all. In the evening, the 16-year-old Englishman will challenge Luke Humphries, who will become number one in the world from Thursday – regardless of the final result – and replace Michael Smith as leader.
“I was happy to win a game at the World Cup. But now I can actually make it to the title,” commented the emotional Littler in London after his 6-2 victory over former champion Rob Cross. One thing is already certain: the World Championship at Alexandra Palace will have a new title holder, that much is certain after Cross’s exit.
Impressive victories
For Humphries, after impressive victories over Dave Chisnall (5:1) in the quarterfinals and outsider Scott Williams (6:0) in the semifinals, the culmination of a fantastic season is at stake. The 28-year-old recently won the World Grand Prix, the Grand Slam of Darts and the Players Championship Finals in a row.
On Tuesday, photos were already circulating of Humphries and Littler playing against each other in a competition in a bar four years ago. Littler was twelve years old at the time. Now he could become the youngest world champion in darts history. In the rankings, “The Nuke,” as Littler is known, would move straight up to ninth place. The youngster didn’t even have a tour card, which is a requirement for participation in many important tournaments.