In the electric atmosphere of Manchester’s AO Arena, a heartwarming scene unfolded that captured the essence of family pride and sporting triumph. Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy known as “The Nuke,” shared an emotional moment with his 81-year-old grandmother, who watched him compete live in a professional darts match for the first time. This poignant encounter, steeped in love and admiration, added a deeply personal layer to Littler’s stellar performance at the Premier League Darts event, showcasing not only his skill but also the unwavering support of his family.
Littler, the reigning PDC World Champion, has been a revelation in the darts world. At just 17, he clinched the 2025 World Championship title, becoming the youngest ever to do so by defeating three-time champion Michael van Gerwen in a commanding 7-3 victory. His meteoric rise has transformed the sport, drawing in younger audiences and earning him accolades like the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2024. But on this Thursday night in Manchester, the spotlight wasn’t solely on his dartboard precision—it was on the tender embrace he shared with his grandmother before taking the stage.
The AO Arena, pulsating with the energy of a raucous crowd, was the closest Premier League venue to Littler’s hometown of Warrington, making it the perfect setting for this family milestone. As Littler made his way to the stage for his quarter-final match against Gerwyn Price, his grandmother, overcome with emotion, wrapped him in a hug. Her eyes glistened with pride as she witnessed her grandson, now a global sports sensation, walk out as a world champion. The moment was a testament to the journey Littler has taken—from throwing darts at a magnetic board as a toddler to dominating the professional circuit.
Littler’s father, Anthony Buckley, couldn’t contain his joy at seeing his mother experience this milestone. He later shared his feelings, saying, “Finally got me mum to the darts tonight at Manchester, 81 years young, to watch her grandson, our Luke TheNuke Littler, walk on as a world champion and get a win meant the world to me.” His words painted a vivid picture of a family united by Littler’s success, with his grandmother’s presence adding a layer of significance to an already thrilling night.
On the oche, Littler was as formidable as ever. Facing Gerwyn Price, a former world champion who unleashed a stunning nine-dart finish, Littler remained unfazed. His composure, a hallmark of his game despite his youth, shone through as he secured a convincing 6-3 victory. The win propelled him into the semi-finals, where he faced world number one Luke Humphries. Though Littler’s night ended with a 6-4 defeat to Humphries, his performance was a reminder of why he’s considered a generational talent. The evening’s honors ultimately went to Nathan Aspinall, who claimed his first nightly win of the season by defeating Humphries 6-4 in the final.
Littler’s ability to perform under pressure is rooted in a lifetime of dedication. Born in Runcorn and raised in Warrington, he began throwing darts at 18 months old, guided by a magnetic board his father bought from a pound shop. By age five, he was practicing on a proper board, and at 14, he claimed his first senior title at the Irish Open. His journey has been marked by milestones—like hitting a televised nine-darter at the 2024 Bahrain Darts Masters just days before his 17th birthday—but it’s his grounded nature that endears him to fans. Off the stage, he’s a typical teenager, indulging in video games, supporting Manchester United, and enjoying fast food from his favorite Warrington takeaway, Hot Spot, which now boasts a wrap named in his honor.
The emotional weight of his grandmother’s presence wasn’t lost on Littler. Her attendance was a rare and cherished moment, bridging generations through his extraordinary achievements. For an 81-year-old who had never seen him play live in the Premier League, watching Littler command the stage was nothing short of magical. It underscored the universal appeal of his story: a young man from humble beginnings, propelled by talent and family support, rewriting the record books.
As Littler continues to dominate darts, moments like these remind us of the human side of his stardom. His grandmother’s tearful pride, his father’s heartfelt words, and his own relentless drive create a narrative that transcends sport. In Manchester, amidst the cheers and the dartboard’s sharp focus, Littler gave his family—and fans everywhere—a memory to cherish, proving that even world champions are, at heart, someone’s grandson.