In a dazzling display of skill and composure, 18-year-old darts sensation Luke Littler stormed into the last 16 of the 2025 Flanders Darts Trophy in Antwerp, Belgium, with a commanding 6-0 victory over Ireland’s Dylan Slevin. The young Englishman, fresh off a week of personal challenges, showcased why he’s considered one of the sport’s brightest stars with a performance that left the Antwerp Xpo crowd buzzing.
Littler, the reigning PDC World Darts Champion, faced uncertainty leading up to the tournament after undergoing emergency dental surgery in Manchester just days before. Despite the ordeal, which left him “in shock and shaken,” Littler took to the oche with unshakable focus. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he hit all six of his double attempts, achieving a rare 100% checkout rate. “Six out of six on the doubles, I don’t usually get that, so I’m very happy,” Littler remarked, his voice carrying a mix of relief and pride. The teenager’s average of over 101 underscored his dominance, as he dispatched Slevin with clinical precision, breaking early with a 78 checkout and sealing the match on double 16.
The Antwerp Xpo, a venue that Littler described as feeling “just like home,” has become a familiar stage for the young star. His affinity for Belgium is well-documented, having clinched the Belgian Darts Open in Wieze earlier this year. “I love coming here,” Littler said, reflecting on the warm reception from the Belgian crowd. “When I came up on stage, it just felt like home. I’m glad to play well tonight and now I can focus on tomorrow.” His confidence is well-earned, as he’s now eyeing a second European Tour title of 2025, a feat that would further cement his status as a generational talent.
The second round of the Flanders Darts Trophy, held on August 30, 2025, was a rollercoaster of surprises, with several top seeds falling early. Notably, Michael van Gerwen, a three-time world champion and a favorite among the home crowd, suffered a shock 6-3 defeat to compatriot Gian van Veen. Van Veen, buoyed by four 180s, overturned an early 3-1 deficit to send the Dutch legend packing. Other big names, including defending champion Dave Chisnall, Peter Wright, and Rob Cross, also exited prematurely, making Littler’s composed performance stand out even more.
Littler’s journey to the last 16 sets up an intriguing clash with Ryan Searle on Sunday, August 31, at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time. The matchup, the final game of the afternoon session, pits Littler against the 16th seed, whom he previously defeated at the World Matchplay in July. Should Littler advance, he’ll face the winner of Damon Heta and Ryan Joyce in the quarterfinals, a testament to the grueling path to the £30,000 top prize in this £175,000 tournament.
Elsewhere, Stephen Bunting delivered a masterclass, averaging over 107 and hitting five 180s in a 6-1 rout of Joe Cullen. The Bullet’s performance earned him a last-16 tie against Josh Rock, promising a thrilling encounter. Mario Vandenbogaerde, the sole Belgian to progress on Saturday, secured a 6-3 win over Jonny Clayton, setting up a clash with Danny Noppert. James Wade, fresh off a 6-3 victory over local favorite Kim Huybrechts, will face Leon Weber, who stunned reigning champion Chisnall.
Littler’s path to darts stardom has been meteoric. At just 18, he’s already completed the Triple Crown, claimed the World Championship, and sparked a phenomenon dubbed “Littlermania.” His performance in Antwerp, despite recent dental woes, highlights his resilience and raw talent. “I want to win here, but it’s only my first game,” Littler cautioned, tempering expectations while exuding quiet confidence. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether “The Nuke” can maintain his explosive form and add another chapter to his remarkable story.
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