Luke Littler, the 18-year-old darts prodigy known as “The Nuke,” has faced a dramatic hurdle on the eve of the 2025 Blåkläder Flanders Darts Trophy in Antwerp, Belgium. On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the reigning PDC World Champion underwent emergency dental surgery in Manchester to remove a problematic tooth, an ordeal that left him “in shock and shaken.” Despite the physical and emotional toll, Littler’s passion for darts and his love for the Belgian stage have him determined to compete for a third European Tour title this weekend, showcasing the resilience that has defined his meteoric rise in the sport.
The dental emergency struck at an inopportune moment, just days before the prestigious tournament at Antwerp Expo, set to run from August 29 to 31. Littler endured “hours and hours” of excruciating pain before seeking urgent care at a Manchester clinic. The procedure, a first for the young star, was a jarring experience. “I’ve never had this done and I don’t know how I’m going to be feeling,” he admitted on his Instagram story, his usual confidence shaken by the unexpected setback. Yet, ever the optimist, he added, “Luckily they were able to do it and sort me out but hopefully it’s all good for Saturday.” With a flight to Belgium scheduled for Friday, Littler is gearing up to face either Dylan Slevin or host nation qualifier Francois Schweyen in his opening match, a test of both his skill and his recovery.
Littler’s 2025 has been a year of dominance, with the teenager securing six major PDC titles, including the UK Open, World Matchplay, and the 2025 World Championship, where he became the youngest world champion in darts history at 17 years and 347 days. His recent form on the ProTour has been equally impressive, with a 6-2 victory over Darryl Pilgrim at Players Championship 24, featuring a stunning 138 checkout, and a thrilling deciding-leg win against Beau Greaves. However, a quarter-final loss to Rob Cross (6-4) reminded fans of the fierce competition he faces. The Flanders Darts Trophy, with a £30,000 top prize, pits Littler against a stacked field, including former world champions Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, and Rob Cross, as well as defending champion Dave Chisnall, who claimed the inaugural title in 2024 with an 8-6 win over Ricardo Pietreczko.
Despite the dental ordeal, Littler’s affection for Belgium fuels his determination. “Everyone knows I love Belgium and hopefully I can play my best darts,” he said, recalling the electric atmosphere of last year’s tournament, which saw a record 287 maximum 180s. His history in Belgium is strong, having won the Belgian Darts Open earlier this year with a nine-dart finish, a testament to his ability to perform under pressure. However, the physical demands of darts—requiring precision and focus—could be tested by any lingering discomfort from the surgery. Littler’s candid admission, “Right now I am in shock and shaken as I didn’t know what to expect,” reveals the human side of a player often seen as invincible.
The tournament also sees other top players overcoming challenges. Gerwyn Price, the 2020 world champion, is set to compete despite a recent hospitalization for an infected hand, highlighting the resilience among the sport’s elite. Littler, as the top seed in the absence of world No. 1 Luke Humphries, faces a favorable draw but a tough road to the final, with potential clashes against heavyweights like Van Gerwen or Price. The Antwerp crowd, known for its passionate support, will be a boon for Littler, who thrives in high-energy environments.
Littler’s journey from a 14-year-old winning his first senior title to the world’s No. 2 player has been remarkable. His six major titles rank him among the PDC’s all-time greats, and his record-breaking 140.91 set average at the 2025 World Championship underscores his extraordinary talent. Yet, this latest challenge adds a new layer to his story. As he steps onto the Antwerp oche, Littler’s ability to overcome pain and uncertainty will be as crucial as his dart-throwing prowess. With the darts world watching, the young star aims to prove that even an emergency trip to the dentist can’t dim his brilliance in pursuit of another trophy.
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