- Luke Littler won the 2026 PDC World Darts Championship with a commanding 7-1 victory over Gian van Veen.
- The 18-year-old Englishman became the fourth player to retain the title, joining Phil Taylor, Adrian Lewis, and Gary Anderson.
- Littler’s average of 106.02 showcased mastery, including standout checkouts like 170 and 147.
- This triumph marks his second world title in three appearances, cementing his status as darts’ brightest star.
A Masterclass Performance in the Final
Luke Littler delivered an unforgettable display to defend his PDC World Darts Championship crown at Alexandra Palace. Facing 23-year-old Dutch sensation Gian van Veen in the final on January 3, 2026, Littler overwhelmed his opponent with precision and power.
Van Veen started strongly, taking the opening set with a 116 checkout. However, Littler responded emphatically, reeling off nine of the next ten legs to surge ahead.
Highlights included a 170 checkout to claim set three and a 147 finish to seal victory. Littler’s consistent scoring—averaging over 107 for much of the match—left van Veen trailing at under 100.
The 7-1 scoreline reflected dominance, with Littler hitting clinical doubles and maximums at will. Van Veen, rising to world No. 3, acknowledged: “Luke played phenomenally… he’s world number one by a margin.”
Historic Achievement for the Young Champion
At 18, Littler joins elite company as the fourth back-to-back winner. Only Phil Taylor (14 titles) and Michael van Gerwen (3) boast more PDC crowns.
His rapid ascent—debut finalist in 2024, champion in 2025, repeat in 2026—draws Taylor comparisons. Experts like Wayne Mardle noted: “There’s nothing he can’t do… he’s just the best.”
2025 dominance included five majors: World Matchplay (completing triple crown), UK Open, Grand Slam, World Grand Prix.
Reactions and Legacy Impact
Post-match emotion overflowed: tears during trophy lift from Sir Chris Hoy, roars acknowledging crowd support after earlier boos.
Littler reflected: “Very special… we’ve got to keep adding titles.” Humility persists amid stardom.
Van Veen earned praise for his run—upsetting Luke Humphries en route—securing Premier League debut.
Commentators hailed generational shift: youth revolutionizing darts. Littler’s mental growth—handling pressure, crowd dynamics—impresses.
This victory solidifies “The Nuke’s” era, inspiring fans worldwide.
| Luke Littler’s PDC World Championship Record |
|---|
| 2024: Finalist (debut) |
| 2025: Champion (age 17) |
| 2026: Champion (back-to-back) |
| Majors Won 2025: 5 (including triple crown) |
Luke Littler’s retention of the PDC World Darts Championship title on January 3, 2026, capped a remarkable tournament at Alexandra Palace. The 18-year-old’s 7-1 demolition of Gian van Veen showcased maturity beyond years.
Early tension saw van Veen claim set one, but Littler’s response defined the match. A 170 checkout ignited momentum; relentless scoring followed.
Van Veen’s European Championship final win over Humphries built confidence, yet Littler’s level proved insurmountable. The Dutchman’s runner-up finish—highest seeding reached final—marks breakthrough.
Crowd dynamics shifted positively for Littler after earlier boos. Supportive chants fueled his focus, turning potential distraction into motivation.
His average (106.02) ranked third-highest tournament-wide, with flawless finishing under pressure. The 147 seal evoked classic Taylor flair.
Historical significance abounds: youngest back-to-back champion, fourth overall. Taylor’s 14 titles remain distant, but trajectory excites.
2025’s five majors—triple crown completion—established dominance. Mental resilience—post-adversity growth—separates him.
Van Veen’s composure earned respect; his Premier League inclusion rewards consistency.
This final blended skill and spectacle: high averages, big checkouts, emotional highs. Darts’ appeal—accessible yet elite—shines through such showcases.
Littler’s journey inspires: teenage prodigy to double champion. Future titles seem inevitable.
The championship’s festive timing amplifies joy—New Year celebrations with sporting excellence.
