In the electrifying world of professional darts, 18-year-old Luke Littler, known as “The Nuke,” continues to captivate audiences with his extraordinary talent and heartwarming personal story. The young prodigy from Warrington recently clinched a remarkable double victory at the Australian and New Zealand Darts Masters, solidifying his status as a global sensation. Amid these triumphs, Littler has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support of his girlfriend, Faith Millar, who has been by his side during a challenging period marked by his manager’s illness.
Littler’s journey to darts stardom has been nothing short of meteoric. Just over a year ago, the then-16-year-old burst onto the scene at the PDC World Darts Championship, reaching the final and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. Since then, he has amassed an impressive array of titles, including the Premier League, Grand Slam of Darts, and now the World Series double. His victories in Australia and New Zealand showcased his resilience and skill, particularly as he navigated the emotional strain of his manager Martin Foulds’ health struggles. Foulds, a pivotal figure in Littler’s career, has been a constant guide, and his illness added an extra layer of complexity to the young star’s recent performances.
Reflecting on his girlfriend’s presence during the Australian Darts Masters, Littler shared, “I’m pretty lucky she has come over.” Faith Millar, a 19-year-old beautician from Wigan, has become a vital source of support for Littler. The couple, who went public with their relationship in July during the World Matchplay in Blackpool, have faced their share of challenges, including online trolling. Littler addressed this adversity with characteristic candor on DartsStream Live, saying, “Obviously, at the start of last year, I was always looking at the comments. And she’s been having a look [at the] negativity. But I just said, ‘They’re jealous. They wanna ruin us.’ I just said, ‘Just don’t look at it and just focus on what we’ve got.’” His words reflect a maturity beyond his years, emphasizing the strength of their bond amidst public scrutiny.
Faith’s presence has been a game-changer for Littler, especially during the World Series events. With his parents unable to make the long journey to Australia, Millar’s decision to join him was a spontaneous yet meaningful gesture. Littler recounted, “As soon as I asked the question, she was like, ‘Yeah, I don’t think I’ll ever get the chance.’ So I said, ‘You can come with me.’” Their shared moments, from a kiss before his quarter-final match in Blackpool to trips to New York for the US Darts Masters, highlight a relationship that thrives on mutual support and shared adventures.
Littler’s on-stage prowess is matched by his off-stage humility. His ability to recover from deficits, as seen in his World Matchplay victory over James Wade, has become a hallmark of his playing style. “At 5-0 down once again I said to myself, ‘You’ve been here before, what are you doing?’” Littler reflected, showcasing his mental fortitude. This resilience was evident in his World Series triumphs, where he overcame tough competition to secure both titles, further cementing his place among darts’ elite.
Beyond the oche, Littler’s family plays a crucial role in his success. His parents, Lisa and Anthony, have been steadfast supporters, with Lisa famously sharing a video of toddler Luke throwing darts in a nappy. His sister Caitlin runs a fan club, amplifying his achievements on social media. The family’s move to a luxurious five-bedroom home near Warrington, complete with an indoor pool, reflects Littler’s rising fortunes, with career earnings now exceeding £1.5 million.
As Littler prepares for the New Zealand Darts Masters, his focus remains sharp. “Obviously, it hadn’t gone to plan on the World Series circuit this year,” he noted, signaling his determination to maintain his winning streak. With Faith by his side and his family’s unwavering support, Littler is not just a darts prodigy but a young man navigating fame, love, and adversity with remarkable grace. His story is one of triumph, both on the dartboard and in the heart, proving that even in the high-stakes world of professional sports, personal connections can make all the difference.
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