In the electric atmosphere of Munich’s Zenith Arena, the 2025 German Darts Grand Prix has already delivered thrilling moments, and the spotlight shines brightly on 18-year-old world champion Luke Littler. The young prodigy, known as “The Nuke,” stormed into the third round with a commanding performance against Cam Crabtree on Sunday, April 20, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown against world No. 23 Joe Cullen on Monday, April 21. As the fourth European Tour event of the year unfolds, Littler’s relentless pursuit of another title has fans buzzing with anticipation.
Littler’s second-round match against Crabtree was a masterclass in precision and composure. The teenager, competing in his first-ever tournament in Munich, dispatched his opponent with ease, winning all his legs in 15 darts or fewer. His performance was marked by a clinical efficiency that underscored why he’s the top seed in the absence of defending champion Luke Humphries. Reflecting on his victory, Littler exuded confidence: “Everything went well there, I’m very happy. It’s my first time in Munich, and hopefully I can pick up another trophy by tomorrow. If I play like this again tomorrow, I will be happy.” His words reflect not just ambition but a steely determination to add to his already impressive 2025 haul, which includes the World Championship, UK Open, and Belgian Darts Open titles.
The path to Monday’s clash with Cullen was paved by both players’ standout performances on Sunday. Cullen, a seasoned competitor with a knack for rising to the occasion, secured his spot in the third round with a convincing 6-2 victory over Mickey Mansell. The 35-year-old, who has climbed to 22nd in the PDC Order of Merit after a strong start to the year, is no stranger to challenging Littler. Their history includes a memorable encounter at last year’s Austrian Darts Open, where Littler triumphed in the final, and a Players Championship upset earlier this year where Cullen got the better of the teenager. This rich backstory adds an extra layer of intrigue to their upcoming battle, as both players bring contrasting styles—Cullen’s gritty resilience against Littler’s explosive scoring power.
The German Darts Grand Prix, with its £30,000 prize for the winner, has drawn a formidable field despite the absence of Humphries, Nathan Aspinall, and Dimitri Van den Bergh, who withdrew before the event. Their departures elevated players like Cullen, Michael Smith, and Ryan Searle to seeded positions, intensifying the competition. Littler, however, remains unfazed by the star-studded lineup. His meteoric rise over the past year—capped by a record-breaking World Championship win and a nine-darter in the Premier League—has solidified his reputation as a generational talent. Yet, he’s not invincible, as evidenced by occasional stumbles, like his early exits in recent Players Championship events. Monday’s match against Cullen will test his ability to maintain focus against a player who thrives under pressure.
Elsewhere in Munich, the tournament has been a showcase of darts excellence. Michael van Gerwen survived a scare against Kim Huybrechts, edging out a 6-5 victory in a last-leg decider after the Belgian missed three match darts. Gerwyn Price and home favorite Martin Schindler also advanced, while Ross Smith capped the evening session with a 6-4 win over Jermaine Wattimena, completing the last 16 lineup. The electric crowd, fueled by the festive Easter weekend, has elevated the event’s energy, and Littler’s presence has only amplified the excitement.
As Littler prepares to face Cullen, the darts world is abuzz with speculation. Can the young star continue his dominant run, or will Cullen’s experience and tenacity derail his trophy hopes? Littler’s earlier comments suggest he’s ready for the challenge: “If I play like this again tomorrow, I will be happy.” For Cullen, the match is a chance to reaffirm his resurgence after a challenging 2024, with his recent Players Championship title signaling a return to form. The Munich stage is set for a clash that promises drama, skill, and perhaps a few maximums to thrill the crowd.
With the Premier League looming later this week in Liverpool, where Littler will face van Gerwen, the German Darts Grand Prix is a crucial opportunity for him to sharpen his game. For now, all eyes are on Monday’s third-round encounter, where “The Nuke” aims to detonate another opponent and inch closer to Euro Tour glory.